osteochondrosis dessicans (ocd)

What is OCD?

OCD is a developmental condition that arises due to a disturbance in the normal differentiation of cartilage cells resulting in failure of endochondral ossification (essential process during foetal development of skeletal system resulting in bone formation).

In fast growing breeds the rapid cartilage growth can over accelerate and outstrip its blood supply resulting in the retention of excessive cartilage which may develop cracks in its important cushioning and weight bearing surface. Over time a section of the joint cartilage can separate from the bone creating a flap, which can vary in size. The flap can irritate the joint and the surrounding tissue, leading to pain and inflammation in the joint, as well as excessive calcium deposits and can lead to the early onset of arthritis.

It is most common in the shoulder, elbow, stifle or hock and can affect both limbs at the same time (bilateral). It is usually seen between the ages of 6-9 months and is more common in male dogs. According to statistics some breeds are predisposed to osteochondrosis in certain parts of their bodies, for instance, Border Collies, Great Danes and Irish Wolfhounds are more likely to suffer with OCD in their shoulder joint. There are some breeds that have a predisposition to OCD, they are Labradors, Golden Retrievers, German Shepherds, Rottweilers, Great Danes, Newfoundlands, Bernese Mountain Dogs, English Setters and Old English Sheepdogs.

In each area where the OCD can occur there will be certain muscle groups that will be affected as a result. The quadricep muscles will be affected if the OCD is in the stifle. OCD in the elbow (elbow dysplasia) can affect the muscles such as the cranial brachial muscles (biceps brachii), caudal brachii muscles (triceps brachii and the anconeus) and the dorsolateral antebrachial muscles (extensor carpi radialis). If the OCD is in the hock then the muscles affected include the medial muscles of the thigh, such as the gracilis, will be affected.

how does it progress?

Onset and progression - the initial signs of OCD are lameness and stiffness in the joint, between 6-9 months, which are usually most evident after a rest after exercise. Examination of the joint will often reveal swollen joints, as well as muscle wastage. OCD in the joint can also lead to osteoarthritis.

Image from Sirius Vet. Please note that BelMar Canine Massage Therapy is not affiliated with Sirius Vet.

what causes OCD in dogs?

Genetics, and to a lesser extent nutrition are considered to be the main causes for OCD. The most research has been done on elbow OCD (elbow dysplasia) where genetics play a major role, however the exact way that genes from the parents play a role is still poorly understood. Other causes are:

  • Excessive exercise as a puppy

  • Fast growing breeds of dog

  • Harmful activities of daily living, such as ball chasing, laminate or slippy floors

  • Physical impact or trauma, such as a fall or collision

  • Joint trauma **

  • The dogs body size and weight **

  • Any nutritional deficiency **

    ** body size and weight, nutritional deficiency during the first few months of life, hormonal imbalances and joint trauma are all factors that can lead to an increase risk of OCD developing.

what are the symptoms?

  • Lameness - which may be mild to begin with and get worse with progression of OCD

  • Uneven weight bearing of the limbs

  • Scuffing of nails (knuckling over) on the affected limb as flexion through the elbow is reduced

  • Muscle atrophy

  • Stiffness and lameness may be worse after exercise

  • Swelling of the joints and warmth in the affected area

  • Reluctance to flex or extend the affected joint when manipulated

    NB - It is most common in the shoulder, elbow, stifle or hock and can affect both limbs at the same time (bilateral). It is usually seen between the ages of 6-9 months and is more common in male dogs.

how can massage help?

  • Helps with increasing the speed of recovery after an operation has been carried out

  • Helps to reduce pain by releasing endorphins 

  • Increases comfort of the animal

  • Helps to improve mobility of the joint

  • Helps to improve range of motion and flexibility in the joint

  • Helps to reduce overcompensation in the body

  • Encourages weight bearing equally on all 4 limbs

  • Helps to develop and maintain muscle tone to reduce atrophy

  • Helps to restore strength in the affected leg 

Contraindications (reasons to not massage or to alter the massage) to be aware of - if your dog is showing any signs of the following then please let me know and then we can discuss a treatment schedule to work around or outside of the particular issue.

Specific to :

  • Inflammation

  • The extent of the damage

  • Recent surgery

  • A recent contusion to the area

  • Open wounds

  • Muscle ruptures

  • Sprains and strains

  • Broken bones

  • Arthritis

  • Infections in the area

  • Swelling

General contraindications:

  • Open wounds

  • High blood pressure

  • Diabetes

  • Cardio-vascular conditions

  • Bruises

  • Pregnancy

  • Epilepsy

  • The severity of the condition

  • The level of inflammation in the area (heat therapy should be avoided if inflammation present)

  • Skin irritations such as eczema