Our veterinary hospital pays special attention to the health of dogs' hip, shoulder and elbow joints, as these joints are essential to our pets' active lifestyles. Joint problems such as hip dysplasia, shoulder arthritis and elbow deformities can lead to severe pain and limited mobility, so early diagnosis is key.

Diagnostic Process

The first step in the diagnostic process is a thorough physical examination by our experienced orthopaedic specialists. This examination provides an opportunity to evaluate joint motion, stability and function. Following the physical examination, various imaging techniques are used to ensure an accurate diagnosis, including X-rays, CT (computed tomography) and MRI (magnetic resonance imaging). These tests allow a detailed examination of the internal structures of the joints and an assessment of the condition of soft tissues and joint elements such as ligaments and cartilage.

When necessary, our orthopaedic specialists can also perform surgical procedures that offer permanent solutions to joint problems.

More Common Joint Diseases

A common joint problem in dogs is osteochondritis dissecans of the shoulder joint (OCD), which is a condition where the articular surfaces between cartilage and bone do not develop properly and can cause pain and limited mobility. In addition, there may be disorders affecting the ligaments of the shoulder joint and shoulder dislocation.

Hip dysplasia, which is a genetic disorder, can cause pain and limited mobility due to abnormal hip joint development. Osteoarthritis (arthritis) is the wear and inflammation of the cartilage in the hip joint, which gradually reduces range of motion and causes pain. Legg-Calvé-Perthes disease can also occur, which involves a reduction in the blood supply to the head of the femur and also results in pain and limited movement.

Elbow joint dysplasia is a failure of the elbow to develop properly, also causing pain and loss of function. Osteochondritis dissecans can also occur in the elbow joint, generating similar symptoms. Finally, arthrosis of the elbow joint, which refers to wear and tear of the cartilage of the elbow joint, can cause chronic pain and limited mobility.

Hungarian Pet Orthopaedic Association Screening Programme

For the early diagnosis of the above problems and for pedigree animals, our veterinary hospital is an active participant in the screening programme developed by the Hungarian Pet Orthopaedic Association.

Dr. László Laczkó, a founding member of the association, performs specialized screenings aimed at the early identification of genetic and developmental disorders, thus creating opportunities for proper treatment and prevention. The programme includes a comprehensive pre-screening procedure based on an accurate assessment of the orthopaedic condition of the dogs, ensuring that potential problems are detected as early as possible.