Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs: causes, symptoms and treatment options

Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder is a painful joint disease that occurs primarily in young, rapidly growing dogs. In this article we would like to provide you with a comprehensive explanation of the causes, symptoms, diagnostic procedures and the various treatment approaches.


What is osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD)?

OCD is a developmental disorder of the articular cartilage and underlying bone. During this process, a piece of cartilage – also called a dissection – detaches from the head of the humerus. This leads to pain and often lameness. The disease usually occurs in the growth phase of young dogs and mainly affects larger dog breeds.

Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD)
Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) 2

(C) https://www.cliniciansbrief.com/article/radiographic-interpretation-canine-shoulder

Causes of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs

The causes of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) are multifaceted and complex. Various factors play a role in the development of this joint disease, including genetic, nutritional and environmental influences. Below we will go into detail about the individual causes and how they work.

1. Genetic predisposition to osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD)

Inherited predisposition

The main cause of OCD is a genetic predisposition. Certain dog breeds are particularly susceptible to the disease, which indicates an inherited weakness in the development of cartilage and underlying bone structures. Commonly affected breeds include:

  • Large dog breeds: Great Danes, Dogue de Bordeaux, Newfoundlands.
  • Working breeds: Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Belgian Shepherds.
  • Medium-sized breeds: Border Collies, which are increasingly affected.

Rapid growth

Large breed dogs go through a particularly rapid growth phase in the first few months of life. This leads to increased mechanical stress on the joints, especially in the shoulder region. When genetic predisposition is added, the cartilage becomes particularly vulnerable to damage during this phase.


2. Developmental disorder of cartilage

Defective cartilage formation

OCD is caused by a disorder in the formation and mineralization of articular cartilage. During normal growth, cartilage should gradually transform into solid bone. However, when development is disrupted, a thicker layer of cartilage remains, which is more susceptible to injury.

Poor circulation

Impaired blood supply to the cartilage means that the affected area does not receive sufficient nutrients and oxygen. This can lead to a condition called cartilage necrosis , in which cartilage cells die. Due to necrosis, the cartilage loses its stability and peels off in the form of scales.


3. Diet and environmental factors

Overnutrition and rapid growth

Excessive calorie intake and an unbalanced diet promote rapid growth and weight gain. Puppies in particular that are fed rich, high-calorie foods put unnecessary pressure on their joints and cartilage. This significantly increases the risk of OCD.

Too much calcium intake

Excessive calcium content in the diet can disrupt the balance of bone metabolism. This hinders the normal mineralization of the cartilage, which promotes the development of OCD.

Unfavorable movement patterns

Intensive physical stress or one-sided movements during the growth phase can further increase the risk. Too much or incorrect exercise can put additional strain on already weakened cartilage.


4. Mechanical stress on the joints

Overweight

Overweight dogs carry extra load on their joints. This excessive stress increases pressure on the delicate cartilage and can cause micro-damage. Overweight puppies and young dogs therefore have a significantly higher risk of developing OCD.

Microtrauma

Repeated microtrauma caused by jumps, jerky movements, or hard surfaces can also cause damage to the cartilage. Such stress can trigger or worsen the disease, especially in dogs that are already genetically predisposed.


5. Hormonal influences

Hormonal changes during the growth phase can influence cartilage formation. An imbalance of growth hormones, which can occur in very rapidly growing dogs, is also considered a contributing factor to OCD.


6. Pre- and postnatal factors

The health of the mother dog during pregnancy and the conditions in which the puppies are raised play an important role. A lack of important nutrients during pregnancy or in the early development phase of the puppies can have a lasting impact on cartilage and bone development.


Interaction of causes

The development of OCD is usually the result of an interaction of several of these factors. Genetic predisposition lays the foundation, while external influences such as diet, exercise and environmental influences largely determine the course of the disease. Excessive or uncontrolled growth combined with mechanical stress is often the decisive factor that makes the disease visible.

graph TD A[Genetic predisposition] --> B[Rapid growth] B --> C[Insufficient blood flow] C --> D[Cartilage necrosis] D --> E[Cartilage scales detach] A --> F[Increased risk due to Overnutrition] F --> BG[Mechanical stress] --> DH[Unfavorable exercise] --> GI[Hormonal influences] --> B

Symptoms of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs

The symptoms of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) can vary depending on the severity of the disease and the joint structure affected. The signs often start gradually, but can become more noticeable as the disease progresses. Early recognition of symptoms is crucial in order to initiate a timely diagnosis and treatment.

1. Lameness

Sudden or gradual lameness

The most noticeable symptom of OCD is lameness of the affected forelimb. This can occur suddenly, but often develops gradually. The lameness may worsen during exercise and is often less obvious during periods of rest.

  • Unilateral lameness: In dogs affected on one side, the lameness is often obvious as they try to relieve the affected shoulder.
  • Bilateral Lameness: If OCD is present on both shoulders, the lameness may be more difficult to recognize. Affected dogs generally appear stiff and may show a reduced willingness to move.

2. Pain on movement

Dogs with shoulder OCD experience pain, especially with certain movements:

  • Shoulder stretching: Stretching the affected shoulder often leads to a pain reaction, recognizable by twitching or pulling away.
  • Shoulder flexion: Bending the shoulder can also be uncomfortable. Dogs try to avoid such movements.

Owners often notice that their dog exhibits increased lameness after activities such as playing, jumping, or running.


3. Changes in the sequence of movements

Irregular gait

An affected dog's gait often becomes irregular and uncoordinated. This can manifest itself in a cautious or shaky movement pattern.

Protective postures

To avoid pain, dogs often adopt protective postures. They place less strain on the affected limb or relieve it completely by shifting the weight to the healthy side.


4. Decreased activity

Dogs with OCD often show a reduced desire for exercise. You avoid running or jumping and appear less energetic overall. This is a noticeable sign, especially in young, normally active dogs.

Unwillingness to play

Affected dogs become withdrawn and less likely to participate in games or other physical activities. Getting up or lying down may also be more hesitant and slow.


5. Swelling and stiffness

joint swelling

In some cases, the affected shoulder may appear swollen. However, the swelling is often difficult to recognize because it is covered by muscles in the shoulder.

Stiffness after periods of rest

After longer periods of rest, e.g. B. in the morning after getting up, many dogs show a noticeable stiffness in their gait. This often decreases as the movement progresses, but remains an indicator of a joint problem.


6. Temporary improvement

A seemingly contradictory symptom of OCD is the occasional improvement in symptoms:

  • Dissolution of the cartilage scale: If the cartilage scale detaches and remains in a posterior joint pocket, the lameness may temporarily disappear.
  • Risk of renewed symptoms: However, this improvement is usually not permanent, as the scales can be washed away to another joint region and cause pain there again.

7. Progressive symptoms

If OCD is left untreated, symptoms may worsen over time:

  • Chronic lameness: The lameness becomes increasingly permanent and more pronounced.
  • Osteoarthritis: In the long term, joint problems can lead to arthrosis, which further limits mobility and increases pain.
  • Muscle atrophy: The protective posture and reduced strain can lead to muscle loss in the affected limb.

8. Dog behavior

Pain and discomfort often also affect the dog's behavior:

  • Irritability: Dogs may appear irritable or restless if they constantly feel pain.
  • Avoiding Touch: Some dogs are sensitive when their shoulder is touched or examined.

Symptoms of bilateral OCD

When both shoulders are affected by OCD, diagnosis can be difficult because the dog often does not show significant lameness on one side. Instead, the entire movement process is impaired, which can be perceived as general stiffness or reluctance to move.

graph TD A[Development of the cartilage scale] --> B[Pain] B --> C[Lameness] C --> D[Protection] D --> E[Reduced activity] E --> F[Chronic damage such as osteoarthritis ]

Diagnosis of OCD

Orthopedic examination

The veterinarian carries out a thorough examination, analyzing the dog's movements and pain reactions.

Imaging procedures

  • X-ray: Often the first choice to visualize changes in the joint.
  • Computed tomography (CT): Provides more precise information, especially in the case of unclear findings or to differentiate it from other joint diseases such as coronoid disease.

Treatment options for osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs

Treatment for osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder aims to relieve pain, restore function to the joint, and improve the dog's long-term quality of life. Depending on the severity and individual situation, different treatment approaches can be considered. All treatment options are described in detail below.


1. Conservative therapy

In certain cases, particularly in very young dogs with mild symptoms, conservative treatment may be considered. This form of therapy aims to relieve symptoms and slow the progression of the disease.

Rest and movement management

  • Restricted movement: Limiting physical activity to relieve pressure on the affected joint. Jumps, running and abrupt stops should be avoided.
  • Joint-friendly exercise: Gentle walks on soft surfaces can be helpful in mobilizing the joint without putting undue strain on it.

Weight management

A healthy body weight is essential to avoid additional pressure on the joints. A diet or reduced-calorie diet may be necessary, especially for overweight dogs.

Drug pain therapy

  • Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): These medications relieve pain and reduce inflammation in the joint.
  • Chondroprotectants: Supplements with glucosamine, chondroitin sulfate or hyaluronic acid can support cartilage health.

physical therapy

Targeted physiotherapeutic measures can help maintain the mobility of the affected joint and prevent muscle atrophy.


2. Surgical treatment

In most cases, especially if the symptoms are severe or conservative therapy does not bring sufficient improvement, surgical treatment is necessary. Surgical removal of the cartilage scale (dissection) is the gold standard for OCD of the shoulder.

Arthroscopic removal

Minimally invasive arthroscopy is the preferred method for removing cartilage scales. It offers numerous advantages:

  • Gentle procedure: Less tissue damage and faster healing compared to open surgery.
  • Precision: The procedure allows for precise visualization and treatment of the affected area.

Process:

  1. Identification and removal of the cartilage scale.
  2. Preparing the OCD bed through micropicking or forage to promote blood circulation and support healing with fibrocartilage.

Open surgery

If the cartilage scale is not accessible arthroscopically, for example because it has washed away into the biceps tendon sheath, open surgery may be necessary.

Advantages of Open Surgery:

  • Access to hard-to-reach areas.
  • Possibility of simultaneous repair of accompanying injuries.

3. Implants to fill defects

In very severe cases where a large defect remains in the joint, the use of implants may be necessary to stabilize the joint and maintain function.

SynACart implant

  • A commercially available implant that was specifically developed to fill defects in the joint.
  • Promotes regeneration and prevents further damage to surrounding tissue.

Custom-made implants

Custom-made implants can be made for complex or unusually shaped defects. These are specifically tailored to the anatomy of the affected dog.


4. Follow-up care after surgical procedures

Postoperative care is crucial for successful healing and restoration of joint function.

Restriction of movement

After surgery, movement should be strictly controlled for several weeks:

  • Leash requirement: walks on a leash, no off-leash activities.
  • No jumps: Avoidance of stress that could endanger the newly treated joint.

physical therapy

Regular physiotherapy exercises promote healing and prevent muscle breakdown:

  • Passive movement exercises.
  • Strengthening exercises to restore muscle function.

Medication support

  • Painkillers: To relieve post-operative pain.
  • Anti-inflammatory drugs: Prevention of inflammatory reactions in the joint.

5. Alternative approaches

Stem cell therapy

Stem cell therapy is becoming increasingly popular as a complementary treatment method. Stem cells can promote the regeneration of cartilage tissue and reduce the inflammatory response.

Platelet Rich Plasma (PRP)

PRP therapy uses growth factors derived from the dog's blood to promote healing in the affected joint.


6. Long-term management

Even after successful treatment, it is important to support the health of the joint in the long term.

Regular exercise

Controlled and regular exercise helps to maintain joint function and avoid obesity.

Nutrition optimization

Feed additives such as omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin can help promote joint health.

Checks at the vet

Regular follow-up examinations are important in order to detect and treat possible complications at an early stage.

graph TD A[Diagnosis of OCD] --> B[Conservative therapy] B --> C[Rest and painkillers] B --> D[Physiotherapy] A --> E[Surgical treatment] E --> F[Arthroscopic Removal] E --> G[Open surgery] A --> H[Implants] H --> I[SynACart] H --> J[Individual solutions] E --> K[Postoperative aftercare]

Frequently asked questions (FAQs) about osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs

Here are detailed answers to the most common questions about osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder to give you a comprehensive understanding of this condition.

What exactly is the cause of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) in dogs, and why are certain breeds more commonly affected?

OCD is a developmental disorder of the articular cartilage in which a piece of cartilage (dissection) detaches from the underlying bone. The exact development process is complex and multifactorial.
Genetic Factors
Certain dog breeds have a genetic predisposition to OCD because their growth rates are very high and the joint structures are put under a lot of strain at a young age. Commonly affected breeds include:
Great Danes
Labrador Retrievers
Golden Retrievers
Newfoundlands
Belgian Shepherd Dogs
Rapid Growth
Rapid growth in large and giant breeds increases the risk. The cartilage may not have enough time to properly develop and transform into bone.
External factors
Overnutrition: High-calorie diets can accelerate growth, which increases joint stress.
Mechanical stress: Jumps, abrupt stops and uncontrolled playing put additional strain on the still soft joints.
Together, these factors affect the health of the articular cartilage and can cause interruption of blood flow and necrosis in the cartilage.

How do I know if my dog ​​has OCD and when should I go to the vet?

Symptoms of OCD most often appear between the ages of 4 and 8 months, as this is the growth period when the condition is most common. Look out for the following signs:
Lameness and restricted movement
Your dog is lame in one or both front limbs.
The lameness worsens after exercise and improves at rest.
Pain with Movement
Your dog exhibits pain when extending or bending his shoulder.
He avoids movements that could cause pain and adopts protective postures.
Changed behavior
Decreased activity, reluctance to play or withdrawal.
Sensitivity to touch in the shoulder area.
When to go to the vet?
If lameness lasts longer than one to two days.
In case of sudden loss of movement or pain reactions.
If you notice any swelling or stiffness.
An early visit to the vet is crucial to diagnose the condition and treat it in a timely manner.

How is OCD of the shoulder diagnosed and what tests are necessary?

The diagnosis of OCD is based on a combination of clinical examinations and imaging tests.
Clinical examination
The veterinarian checks movement patterns, pain reactions and the mobility of the affected shoulder. A lameness test is often carried out to assess the severity of the movement restriction.
Imaging procedures
X-rays: are used to make changes in the joint visible, such as detachment of the cartilage scales or defects in the humeral head.
Computed tomography (CT): Provides more detailed images and is particularly helpful in identifying the extent of the disease and possible comorbidities.
Arthroscopy: A minimally invasive method that allows the joint to be viewed directly. It can be used for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes at the same time.

What treatment options are there and how do you decide which therapy is best?

The choice of treatment depends on the severity of the disease, the dog's age and general health. There are both conservative and surgical approaches.
Conservative therapy
Use in mild cases: Conservative therapy can be tried in young dogs whose symptoms are mild.
Ingredients: Painkillers (NSAIDs) for pain relief.
Controlled movement to relieve pressure on the joints.
Nutritional control to promote healthy growth.
Surgical treatment
Recommended for severe symptoms: In most cases, surgery is required to remove the cartilage scales.
Methods:Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive, precise and with a shorter healing time.
Open surgery: Performed when the scale is difficult to access or comorbidities need to be treated.
Long-term care
After treatment, consistent follow-up care is required, including physical therapy and regular veterinary checks.

What is the prognosis for dogs with shoulder OCD, and can relapses occur?

The prognosis for dogs with OCD of the shoulder is good in most cases, especially if the condition is detected and treated early.
Prognosis after surgical treatment
Dogs whose cartilage scales have been completely removed are often lame-free again within a few weeks to months.
Quality of life improves significantly and many dogs can lead normal, active lives.
Long-term risks
Osteoarthritis: If OCD is diagnosed late or there is already severe joint damage, osteoarthritis can develop, causing long-term mobility restrictions and pain.
Recurring symptoms: In rare cases, cartilage flakes that have been washed away can lead to renewed symptoms, especially if they become trapped elsewhere in the joint.
Prevention of relapses
Maintain a balanced diet and controlled exercise.
Maintain regular veterinary checks to detect possible complications early.
With consistent treatment and follow-up care, most dogs can enjoy full and active lives despite OCD.

Summary: Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs

Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs is a complex and painful joint disease that occurs primarily in young, rapidly growing dogs. It affects the shoulder joint and leads to pain, lameness and restricted movement due to the detachment of a cartilage scale. The causes of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs are multifactorial and include genetics, overnutrition, mechanical stress, and rapid growth. Large dog breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Great Danes and Golden Retrievers are particularly at risk.

The symptoms of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs often begin gradually, but are usually manifested by lameness of the forelimbs, pain with movements such as shoulder extension or flexion, and reduced activity. If the shoulder joints are affected on both sides, the lameness is often more difficult to recognize because the dog shows general movement restrictions. In some cases, symptoms may temporarily improve as the cartilage flakes loosen, but without treatment the risk of recurrence remains high.

Diagnosis of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs is made through a combination of clinical examination and imaging techniques such as x-rays or computed tomography (CT). Joint changes and the position of the cartilage scales are made visible. osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs is suspected, it is important to rule out other joint diseases such as coronoid disease.

Treatment of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs depends on the severity of the disease. In mild cases, conservative therapy consisting of rest, controlled exercise, weight management and pain medication may be sufficient. However, if symptoms are more pronounced, surgical intervention is required. Arthroscopic cartilage removal is the preferred method for treating osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs because it is minimally invasive and allows for faster healing. In rare cases where there is a large defect in the joint, implants such as SynACart or custom-made solutions can be used.

Follow-up care after treatment of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs is crucial for the success of the therapy. Controlled exercise, physiotherapy and regular veterinary check-ups help restore joint function and prevent long-term damage such as osteoarthritis. The prognosis for dogs with osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder is good in most cases, especially if the condition is diagnosed and treated early. , osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs can lead to chronic pain and permanent movement restrictions.

Prevention of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs begins during the growth phase. A balanced diet, avoiding excess weight and controlled exercise routines can significantly reduce the risk. Particularly with large dog breeds, care should be taken to ensure a slow growth rate in order to minimize the strain on the joints. Early veterinary checks for abnormalities in movement help to detect and treat osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs

In summary, osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs is a serious but treatable disease. With a comprehensive understanding of the causes, symptoms and treatment options, affected dogs can lead pain-free and active lives with early intervention. Pet owners should be aware of the risks so that they can act quickly osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs

A crucial factor in treating osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs is collaboration between veterinarian and owner. While the veterinarian makes the diagnosis and selects the appropriate therapy, it is the owner's responsibility to support healing through consistent rest periods, controlled movement sequences and, if necessary, physiotherapeutic measures. Follow-up care is particularly important for osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs to ensure that the joint regenerates completely and the dog's quality of life is permanently improved.

In the long term, dogs suffering from osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder lead almost normal lives after successful treatment. However, it is advisable to take certain precautions to avoid re-stressing the joints. This includes avoiding excessive jumping or abrupt movements, as well as a balanced diet that supports the dog's ideal weight. Owners should also ensure that their dog receives regular moderate exercise, as targeted activity strengthens joints and promotes overall mobility.

Particular attention is paid to the early detection of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs , as this disease often only shows subtle symptoms at the beginning. Lameness or altered movement patterns that appear sporadically at first may be signs of a larger problem. Early diagnosis of osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs can not only make treatment easier, but also significantly reduce the risk of secondary diseases such as osteoarthritis.

Another issue that should be considered in connection with osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs is genetic predisposition. Owners of dogs that belong to a susceptible breed should be particularly vigilant and take preventative measures from puppyhood. reduce the risk of developing osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs

, osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs is a disease caused by a combination of genetic predisposition, environmental factors and growth conditions. With the right treatment, careful aftercare and preventative measures, the dog's quality of life can be significantly increased. It is the responsibility of pet owners to pay attention to signs early and to work closely with the veterinarian to ensure the best possible care for their dog. Osteochondrosis dissecans (OCD) of the shoulder in dogs is therefore not an inevitable fate, but a challenge that can be successfully overcome with knowledge, commitment and care.

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