Forums » Joint Health

Young Labrador With Arthritis in the Elbow

  • July 9, 2015 10:29 AM EDT

    My female Lab is only 3 years 4 months old and an X-ray shows she has the beginnings of arthritis in her left front "elbow." Is this unusual? What can we do to mitigate any pain and/or mobility problems as she ages?

    • 406 posts
    July 12, 2015 11:22 PM EDT

    Answered by: James L. Cook, DVM, PhD, DACVS, DACVSMR:

    Unfortunately, this is very common in Labs. It is most likely elbow dysplasia. It is important to get a definitive diagnosis and classification of this, i.e., fragmented coronoid, OCD and or UAP so that the best treatment plan can be determined. Most likely, arthroscopic surgery would be the best next step followed by a comprehensive management plan including nutritional management, activity management and potentially medications. I would highly recommend you see an orthopaedic or sports medicine specialist to help with this approach.