How Effective Is Surgery for a Dog’s Arthritis?

If a dog’s arthritis is not severe, surgery is generally not recommended because it carries certain risks, requires anesthesia and a long recovery period, and still needs rehabilitation afterward.

Also, if the dog has degenerative or inflammatory arthritis, surgery may not resolve the underlying problem.

Medication, physical therapy, nutritional supplements and appropriate exercise are usually used to relieve pain and improve joint flexibility and stability.

However, if the arthritis is caused by severe hip or elbow dysplasia, surgery may be the best choice.