A Holistic Approach to Osteoarthritis Care in Canines

Rachel Malkani BSc (Hons) MSc (AWSEL) PhD CDBC CCAB ABTC-CAB | BC2024

Hannah Capon | SPC2026

55 minute video - Certificated at 1 hour of CPD

OA is a complex & often overlooked clinical syndrome; one composed not just of disease, but also of illness. While veterinary science continues to struggle with controlling, slowing, halting, or reversing the underlying disease, we are already equipped with many tools and strategies to positively mediate the illness experience. OA is a progressive, degenerative, inflammatory condition that affects the entire joint complex; including cartilage, synovium, joint capsule, subchondral bone & surrounding soft tissue. It is not a singular pathology but rather a multifaceted syndrome that encompasses nociceptive, inflammatory, and nociplastic pain mechanisms. From peripheral nociceptor sensitisation to altered spinal cord processing & impaired descending modulation, OA presents as a disease of progressive postural adaptation, compensatory overload & systemic consequences. Its impacts extend beyond the physical to affect cognition & affective state. So how can we truly & holistically manage it?