Osteoarthritis (Aka. “Arthritis”)
Osteoarthritis can make it hard for your pet to move comfortably, and it’s natural to feel concerned as chronic joint pain develops over time. At Holistic Vet Care, our fully qualified vets are here to support you and your pet. Our goal is to help your pet move more comfortably, maintain strength, and support long-term joint health whilst guiding you every step of the way.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
What is osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis is the most common cause of chronic pain in pets. While it is often associated with older pets, it is also commonly seen in younger individuals due to developmental joint issues such as hip dysplasia or elbow dysplasia.
Traditionally, osteoarthritis was thought of as degeneration of the cartilage. However, we now know that the entire joint structure is affected. It can develop when abnormal forces are placed through normal joints, normal forces through abnormal joints, or a combination of both.
The most common cause is developmental joint disease, including hip dysplasia, elbow dysplasia, and patella luxation. In these cases, the joints don’t fit perfectly, creating areas of abnormal pressure.
Other factors can contribute as well. Obesity increases daily stress on the joints, while injuries or infections—such as cruciate ligament injuries or septic/immune-mediated polyarthritis—can damage the joint and eventually lead to osteoarthritis.
Holistic treatment
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular veterinarian, as we do not offer surgical or conventional medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be a valuable part of supporting the health and ongoing wellbeing of pets with osteoarthritis, alongside their conventional treatment plans.
With acupuncture and carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine, we aim to support pets with osteoarthritis in the following ways:
- Help strengthen muscles surrounding affected joints to improve stability
- Help relax compensatory muscles and correct uneven weight-bearing to improve comfort and mobility
- Help ease discomfort by reducing pain, swelling, and inflammation
- Support the body’s natural healing processes by…
- Helping promote blood circulation to the affected area
- Helping slow cartilage degeneration associated with osteoarthritis
Additionally, research suggests that acupuncture may further support joint function by encouraging healthy joint fluid production and may help slow cartilage degeneration, allowing joints to move more smoothly.
Through these approaches, our qualified vets aim to support your pet throughout their treatment journey to help improve their comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Even if your pet is scheduled for surgery, we can help support pre-operative stability and assist with post-operative healing.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, food therapy is foundational in addressing underlying “patterns of disharmony” (the way disease presents within the individual). We aim to support the body’s natural balance with tailored whole-food diets, rather than heavily processed pet foods which may contribute to inflammation in some pets.
For osteoarthritis, our goals with food therapy are to support joint health and reduce inflammation, whilst encouraging a healthy weight to reduce strain on the joints.
Every pet is unique, however, and more specific dietary recommendations are tailored to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis. Specific guidance can be discussed with one of our qualified vets during your consultation.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy is a gentle, non-invasive, supportive treatment that most pets find very soothing. With laser therapy, we aim to support pets with osteoarthritis in the following ways:
- Help reduce inflammation.
- Help alleviate pain by stimulating endorphin release.
- Help reduce swelling by encouraging lymphatic drainage.
- Help support healthy nerve functioning
- Support natural healing by…
- encouraging blood circulation to the affected tissues.
- stimulating collagen production.
- promoting cellular reproduction and proliferation.
Research suggests that laser therapy may slow the progression of osteoarthritis by supporting collagen production and helping to protect joint health. While not a cure, laser therapy can be a valuable part of a holistic care plan by helping to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy is a gentle, non-invasive treatment option which aims to support pets with osteoarthritis in the following ways:
- Help reduce pain, inflammation, and swelling.
- Support natural healing by…
- promoting cellular reproduction and proliferation.
- encouraging blood circulation to the affected tissues, to help deliver oxygen and nutrients.
- stimulating collagen production, which may help support tissue strength, joint function, and potentially reduce the risk of osteoarthritis.
Shockwave therapy is particularly effective in chronic cases where scar tissue has formed, causing stiffness and reducing range of motion. By breaking down this scar tissue, shockwave therapy helps improve mobility, comfort, and overall function.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What are common clinical signs of osteoarthritis?
Osteoarthritis causes chronic pain; however, slips, falls, or minor injuries can trigger acute flare-ups. Some pets may show obvious lameness or difficulty moving, while in others, the pain develops gradually and can be harder to spot. Subtle signs that your dog may be in pain include changes in posture, alterations in their gait, or increased time spent resting or sleeping.
How is osteoarthritis typically treated by conventional vets?
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular vet, as we do not offer surgical or medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
For osteoarthritis, vets often focus on managing pain and inflammation with medications – such as anti-inflammatories, steroids, or pain-relieving drugs.
Alongside this, they are also likely to advise on diet, lifestyle, and environmental changes as part of a multimodal approach to help reduce stress on the joints. Possible changes include weight management, gentle exercise, physiotherapy etc.
In severe cases, surgery may be recommended to correct joint problems or improve comfort.
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, healing, and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
