Veterinarians often test for arthritis in horses by using nerve blocking. This procedure uses shots to anesthetize portions of the leg, starting with the heel and moving up. When the horse no longer limps, the arthritis has been localized. Using ultrasound, X-rays or fluid samples, veterinarians determine the extent of problem, and treatment follows with drugs or surgery. Drugs reduce inflammation, relieve pain and can rejuvenate the joint.
Surgery can fuse or clean problem joints.
Arthritis also strikes dogs, Tobias said, most frequently from hip dysplasia, or looseness in the hip joint. If detected early enough in puppies, surgery can tighten hip joints and possibly prevent arthritis. Tobias said dogs' knees often suffer from arthritis, usually caused by an athletic injury to the knee's cruciate ligaments. Elbows and spines also are prone to arthritis. Dogs with arthritis exhibit many signs similar to those exhibited by humans with arthritis.