Osteochondritis Dissecans

Osteochondritis dissecans, commonly referred to as OCD, is a developmental orthopedic condition that affects the cartilage and underlying bone in the joints of growing dogs. This condition occurs when the normal process of cartilage transforming into bone is disrupted during a puppy's rapid growth phase, resulting in abnormally thickened cartilage that fails to receive adequate nutrition. The condition is particularly common in large and giant breed dogs, typically manifesting between four and twelve months of age when these breeds experience their most significant growth spurts.

The development of osteochondritis dissecans begins when cartilage in specific joint areas becomes excessively thick and the deepest layers become separated from their blood supply. Without proper nutrition, these cartilage cells die and the tissue becomes weakened. Normal joint movement and stress can then cause the damaged cartilage to crack or separate from the underlying bone, creating what veterinarians call a cartilage flap. In some cases, this flap may completely detach and become a loose body floating within the joint space, causing significant pain and inflammation.

Osteochondritis dissecans most commonly affects the shoulder joint in dogs, though it can also develop in the elbow, knee, and hock joints. The condition has a substantial impact on a young dog's quality of life, causing lameness that may range from subtle stiffness to severe inability to bear weight on the affected limb. Dogs with OCD often show reluctance to exercise, difficulty rising after rest, and noticeable discomfort during normal activities. The pain associated with this condition can significantly affect a growing puppy's development and overall well-being if left untreated.

Fortunately, osteochondritis dissecans is a treatable condition when diagnosed early and managed appropriately. Veterinary intervention is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment planning, as the severity of the condition and the specific joint affected will influence the recommended approach. While some mild cases may respond to conservative management with rest and anti-inflammatory medications, most dogs with OCD benefit from surgical intervention to remove the damaged cartilage and promote healing. With proper treatment, many dogs go on to live active, comfortable lives, though early detection and intervention significantly improve long-term outcomes.

The primary cause of osteochondritis dissecans relates to disruptions in the normal process of endochondral ossification, which is how cartilage gradually transforms into bone during a puppy's skeletal development. In healthy growing dogs, cartilage cells in the joint surfaces receive nutrition through diffusion from the joint fluid, and the deeper layers of cartilage progressively convert to bone as the skeleton matures. When this process is disrupted, the cartilage grows too thick for nutrients to reach the deepest cells, leading to cell death and structural weakness that ultimately results in OCD lesions.

Genetic factors play a significant role in the development of osteochondritis dissecans, with certain breeds showing a strong hereditary predisposition to the condition. Research has identified that the tendency to develop OCD is passed from parents to offspring, making breeding decisions an important consideration for reducing the incidence of this condition. Dogs with a family history of OCD are at substantially higher risk, and responsible breeders work to screen for and eliminate affected dogs from breeding programs. The inheritance pattern appears to be polygenic, meaning multiple genes contribute to the risk rather than a single identifiable gene.

Nutritional factors during the critical growth period contribute significantly to OCD development. Overfeeding puppies, particularly providing excessive calories and calcium, can accelerate growth beyond what the developing skeletal system can properly support. Diets that are too high in energy density cause rapid weight gain and growth, placing abnormal stress on developing joints and cartilage. Excess dietary calcium disrupts normal bone metabolism and cartilage maturation, further increasing the risk of developmental orthopedic diseases including OCD. This is why veterinarians strongly recommend feeding large breed puppies specially formulated growth diets that control calorie and mineral intake.

Trauma and mechanical stress on developing joints can trigger or worsen osteochondritis dissecans in predisposed dogs. While minor injuries during normal puppy play are unlikely to cause OCD on their own, repetitive stress on vulnerable joint surfaces can contribute to cartilage damage. Activities that place excessive force on immature joints, such as jumping, running on hard surfaces, or intense exercise during the rapid growth phase, may accelerate the development of lesions in genetically susceptible puppies. This mechanical component explains why OCD tends to affect weight-bearing surfaces of joints that experience the most stress.

The mechanism by which OCD develops involves a cascade of events beginning with abnormal cartilage thickness. As the cartilage grows too thick, the deepest layers become hypoxic and undergo necrosis due to inadequate nutrient diffusion. This creates a plane of weakness between the healthy superficial cartilage and the dying deeper tissue. Normal joint forces then cause separation at this weakened zone, initially as a crack that may progress to a partial flap and eventually to complete detachment. The presence of a loose cartilage flap or fragment within the joint causes ongoing inflammation, pain, and progressive damage to the surrounding joint surfaces, establishing a cycle of joint deterioration if left untreated.

Early warning signs of osteochondritis dissecans often begin subtly and may initially be dismissed as normal puppy clumsiness or minor growing pains. Owners may first notice that their puppy seems stiff after resting or slow to warm up during play. The affected dog might show mild reluctance to engage in activities they previously enjoyed, or they may tire more quickly than expected during exercise. These early symptoms often appear intermittently, with good days and bad days, which can delay recognition that a significant problem is developing. Because OCD typically develops during the busy and exciting puppy months, these early warning signs are frequently overlooked.

The most common symptom of osteochondritis dissecans is lameness in the affected limb, which typically becomes more apparent as the condition progresses. In cases affecting the shoulder, dogs often develop a characteristic shortened stride in the front leg, sometimes described as a choppy or stilted gait. The lameness is usually worse after exercise or periods of activity and may temporarily improve with rest. Some dogs will noticeably shift their weight to the unaffected limbs, leading to an asymmetric stance or gait pattern. The lameness tends to be persistent rather than completely resolving, distinguishing OCD from simple muscle strains or minor injuries.

Behavioral changes frequently accompany the physical symptoms of OCD and provide important clues for observant owners. Affected dogs often show decreased interest in playing, running, or climbing stairs. They may hesitate before jumping onto furniture or into vehicles, activities they previously performed without concern. Some dogs become generally less active and spend more time resting or lying down. Puppies with OCD may seem less enthusiastic about walks or may want to stop and rest during outings. Changes in temperament, including irritability when touched in certain areas or reluctance to be handled, may also indicate joint pain.

Physical signs that owners or veterinarians may observe include swelling around the affected joint, muscle wasting in the limb due to decreased use, and pain responses when the joint is manipulated. In shoulder OCD, the most common form, dogs typically show pain when the shoulder is extended and the joint is flexed simultaneously. The affected joint may feel thickened compared to the normal side, and there may be reduced range of motion. In some cases, owners may notice a clicking or popping sensation when the joint moves, which can indicate the presence of a loose cartilage fragment. Muscle atrophy develops relatively quickly in the affected limb as the dog favors other legs.

Symptom progression in osteochondritis dissecans follows a general pattern of gradual worsening without treatment. Initially, lameness may only appear after exercise, but it typically progresses to being present even at rest. The intermittent nature of early symptoms often gives way to more constant discomfort. Dogs may develop compensatory issues in other limbs from altered weight distribution, compounding the overall mobility problems. As joint inflammation becomes chronic, secondary arthritic changes begin to develop, which can cause ongoing stiffness and pain even after the primary OCD lesion is addressed.

Emergency symptoms requiring immediate veterinary attention include sudden severe lameness where the dog refuses to bear any weight on the affected limb, significant joint swelling that develops rapidly, or signs of extreme pain such as vocalizing, aggression when approached, or complete reluctance to move. While OCD itself is not typically a medical emergency, these acute presentations may indicate that a cartilage fragment has become displaced or that significant joint damage is occurring. Any puppy showing persistent or worsening lameness should receive prompt veterinary evaluation rather than waiting to see if symptoms resolve, as early intervention significantly improves outcomes in osteochondritis dissecans.

The diagnostic process for osteochondritis dissecans begins with a comprehensive veterinary examination that includes a detailed history and thorough orthopedic assessment. Veterinarians will ask about the onset and progression of symptoms, any activities that seem to worsen the lameness, the puppy's diet and growth rate, and family history if known. The physical examination includes observing the dog's gait at walk and trot, palpating all joints for swelling, heat, or pain responses, and assessing range of motion in suspected affected joints. In cases of shoulder OCD, a specific manipulation test that extends the shoulder while flexing the joint typically elicits a pain response that helps localize the problem.

Radiographic imaging, commonly known as X-rays, is the primary diagnostic tool for confirming osteochondritis dissecans. Standard radiographs of the affected joint can reveal characteristic changes including flattening of the joint surface, areas where the underlying bone appears less dense, and in some cases visible cartilage flaps or loose bodies within the joint. However, because cartilage itself does not show up directly on X-rays, the actual cartilage damage may be more extensive than what appears on radiographic images. Multiple views of the joint are typically obtained, and comparison with the opposite limb can help identify subtle abnormalities. In some cases, contrast material may be injected into the joint to better outline cartilage defects.

Advanced imaging techniques provide more detailed information about the extent of cartilage damage and help with surgical planning. Computed tomography, or CT scans, creates cross-sectional images that can more precisely define bone lesions and identify loose fragments that might be missed on standard radiographs. Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, offers the advantage of directly visualizing cartilage and can detect early OCD lesions before bone changes become apparent on X-rays. Arthroscopy, which involves inserting a small camera into the joint, serves as both a diagnostic and therapeutic tool, allowing direct visualization of the cartilage surface and immediate treatment if lesions are found. The choice of advanced imaging depends on the specific case, available resources, and whether surgery is being planned.

Differential diagnosis is an important part of the diagnostic process because several other conditions can cause similar symptoms in young, large breed dogs. Conditions that must be distinguished from OCD include elbow dysplasia, which often occurs concurrently with OCD in predisposed breeds, panosteitis or growing pains, hypertrophic osteodystrophy, and traumatic injuries to the joint. Hip dysplasia may cause rear limb lameness that could be confused with OCD of the stifle or hock. Infectious conditions and, rarely, bone tumors must also be considered in the differential list. The specific location of pain, radiographic findings, and age at onset help veterinarians distinguish between these conditions and arrive at an accurate diagnosis. Complete orthopedic and radiographic examination of all limbs is often recommended because dogs with OCD in one joint frequently have lesions developing in other locations as well.

Emergency and immediate treatment for a dog diagnosed with osteochondritis dissecans focuses on pain management and reducing inflammation while a comprehensive treatment plan is developed. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs prescribed by a veterinarian help control pain and decrease joint inflammation, making the dog more comfortable while awaiting definitive treatment. Strict rest is typically prescribed initially, with activity restricted to leash walks for bathroom breaks only. Cold therapy applied to the affected joint can help reduce acute inflammation, and comfortable, padded bedding supports joint comfort during the rest period. This initial stabilization phase allows for complete diagnostic workup and surgical scheduling if needed.

Medical management may be appropriate for some cases of osteochondritis dissecans, particularly when lesions are small, no cartilage flap or loose body is present, or when surgery is not feasible. Conservative treatment involves strict exercise restriction for several weeks to months, allowing the body an opportunity to heal the cartilage defect. Anti-inflammatory medications control pain and reduce joint inflammation during this healing period. Joint supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin may support cartilage health, though their effectiveness varies. Weight management is critical to reduce stress on the affected joint. Medical management is most likely to succeed in young dogs with early lesions and requires commitment to extended rest periods and activity modification. Regular rechecks and follow-up radiographs monitor healing progress.

Surgical treatment is the gold standard for most cases of osteochondritis dissecans, particularly when a cartilage flap or loose fragment is present. The primary surgical goals are to remove the damaged cartilage, retrieve any loose bodies from the joint, and prepare the underlying bone to encourage the formation of replacement fibrocartilage. Traditional open surgical approaches involve making an incision directly over the joint to access and treat the lesion. Arthroscopic surgery has become the preferred technique at many veterinary facilities, using small incisions and a camera to visualize and treat the joint with minimal tissue trauma. Arthroscopy typically results in faster recovery and less post-operative discomfort while providing excellent visualization of the entire joint.

Supportive care during treatment and recovery plays a vital role in achieving the best possible outcome. Pain management continues throughout the recovery period, with medications adjusted based on the dog's comfort level. Physical therapy and rehabilitation help maintain muscle mass, improve range of motion, and support the healing process. Controlled, gradual return to activity follows a structured protocol that slowly increases exercise intensity over weeks to months. Hydrotherapy, including underwater treadmill walking, provides low-impact exercise that builds strength without stressing the healing joint. Joint supplements and prescription joint diets may support ongoing cartilage health.

Alternative and complementary treatments can support recovery and long-term joint health in dogs with OCD. Regenerative medicine options, including platelet-rich plasma and stem cell therapy, may help promote cartilage healing and reduce inflammation, though research on their effectiveness in OCD specifically is ongoing. Acupuncture can provide pain relief for some dogs and may be used alongside conventional treatments. Low-level laser therapy may reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing. These complementary approaches are typically used in addition to, not instead of, standard medical or surgical treatment.

Treatment decisions for osteochondritis dissecans depend on several factors that veterinarians discuss with owners. The size and location of the lesion, presence of loose cartilage fragments, the dog's age and overall health, severity of symptoms, and financial considerations all influence the recommended approach. Surgery generally provides the best outcomes for most OCD cases, with success rates reported between seventy-five and ninety percent for uncomplicated cases treated early. Dogs treated surgically typically return to normal or near-normal activity levels. Conservative management may be attempted first in mild cases but often proves less successful, and delayed surgery after failed medical management may result in poorer outcomes due to progressive joint damage. Early intervention, regardless of the treatment approach chosen, consistently produces better long-term results.

The recovery timeline following surgical treatment for osteochondritis dissecans varies depending on the specific procedure performed, the joint involved, and individual patient factors. Generally, the initial recovery phase lasts two to four weeks, during which strict rest and limited activity are required. Dogs are typically comfortable within a few days of surgery, but internal healing takes much longer. Most dogs show significant improvement in lameness within four to six weeks, though complete recovery to full athletic activity typically requires three to four months. Arthroscopic procedures generally allow faster recovery compared to traditional open surgery due to reduced tissue trauma.

Post-treatment care is critical for successful recovery and involves several components that owners must diligently follow. Activity restriction is paramount during the early healing phase, with dogs confined to a small area or crate when unsupervised and only allowed outside on a short leash for bathroom breaks. Surgical incisions require monitoring for signs of infection including swelling, discharge, or opening of the wound. Pain medications and any prescribed anti-inflammatory drugs must be given as directed. Ice therapy during the first few days after surgery can help control swelling. Physical therapy exercises prescribed by the veterinary team promote healing and prevent muscle loss while respecting activity restrictions. Follow-up appointments allow monitoring of healing progress and adjustment of the rehabilitation plan.

Prognosis for dogs treated for osteochondritis dissecans depends on several factors including the severity of the lesion at diagnosis, presence of secondary arthritis, timeliness of treatment, and adherence to the recovery protocol. Dogs treated surgically before significant degenerative changes develop generally have an excellent prognosis, with most returning to normal activity levels. Shoulder OCD typically carries the best prognosis, while elbow involvement may have more variable outcomes due to the complexity of that joint. Dogs in which OCD is diagnosed and treated early, before a cartilage flap completely detaches and before arthritis develops, have substantially better long-term outcomes than those with chronic or severe disease.

The long-term outlook for dogs recovering from osteochondritis dissecans treatment is generally positive, though some considerations apply for the remainder of the dog's life. Most surgically treated dogs return to active lifestyles including running, playing, and normal exercise. However, many dogs will develop some degree of osteoarthritis in the affected joint over time, even with successful treatment. This arthritis may cause occasional stiffness or discomfort, particularly in cold weather or after heavy exercise, and may require intermittent anti-inflammatory medication as the dog ages. Maintaining a healthy weight, providing appropriate exercise, and using joint supplements as recommended can help manage long-term joint health. Regular veterinary check-ups allow monitoring for arthritis progression and adjustment of management strategies as needed.

Primary prevention of osteochondritis dissecans centers on controlling the modifiable risk factors during the critical puppy growth period. Feeding an appropriate diet specifically formulated for large breed puppy growth is one of the most important preventive measures. These diets are designed with controlled calorie density and appropriate calcium and phosphorus levels to support steady, moderate growth rather than rapid weight gain. Avoiding overfeeding and preventing puppies from becoming overweight reduces mechanical stress on developing joints. Maintaining puppies at a lean body condition, where ribs are easily felt but not prominently visible, protects developing skeletal structures during the vulnerable growth phase.

Breeding and genetic prevention strategies are essential for reducing the incidence of osteochondritis dissecans in predisposed breeds. Responsible breeders screen their breeding stock for orthopedic conditions and do not breed dogs that have been diagnosed with or treated for OCD. While no specific genetic test exists for OCD, purchasing puppies from breeders who maintain health records, screen for orthopedic disease, and can provide information about the orthopedic health of parents and grandparents reduces risk. Prospective puppy buyers should ask breeders about the incidence of OCD and other developmental orthopedic diseases in their breeding lines. Breed clubs often maintain health databases and provide guidance on recommended health screening for specific breeds.

Nutritional strategies for prevention extend beyond simply choosing the right food. Meals should be measured and portioned appropriately rather than allowing free-choice feeding, which often leads to overconsumption. Treats and supplements should be factored into daily caloric intake to prevent excess. Avoid supplementing with additional calcium, which is particularly harmful to skeletal development in large breed puppies, as commercial large breed puppy foods already contain appropriate levels. Fresh water should always be available to support overall health. Discussing nutrition with your veterinarian allows for personalized recommendations based on your puppy's specific breed, growth rate, and body condition.

Health maintenance practices during the growth period help protect developing joints and support prevention efforts. Regular veterinary checkups allow monitoring of growth rate and body condition, with adjustments to feeding recommendations as needed. Appropriate exercise is important, but it should be moderate and controlled in large breed puppies. Avoid activities that place excessive stress on immature joints, such as prolonged running, jumping on or off heights, and rough play on slippery surfaces. Short, frequent play sessions on appropriate surfaces support muscle development without overtaxing developing bones and cartilage. Swimming provides excellent low-impact exercise for growing puppies.

Early intervention through awareness and monitoring helps catch any developing problems before they become severe. Owners of large and giant breed puppies should be aware of the signs of developmental orthopedic diseases including OCD and should not dismiss persistent lameness or stiffness as normal growing pains. Any lameness that does not resolve within a day or two, or that recurs repeatedly, warrants veterinary evaluation. Catching OCD early, before a cartilage flap fully develops or detaches, may allow for more conservative treatment options and generally produces better outcomes. Working closely with your veterinarian throughout the growth period, maintaining recommended vaccination and checkup schedules, and promptly addressing any orthopedic concerns supports the best possible outcomes for puppies at risk of osteochondritis dissecans.

Daily management for dogs living with or recovering from osteochondritis dissecans requires attention to activity levels, comfort, and ongoing health monitoring. Exercise should be appropriate for the dog's current condition and recovery stage, with guidance from the veterinary team on what activities are safe. Generally, low-impact activities like controlled leash walks and swimming are preferable to high-impact running and jumping. Consistent daily routines help dogs know what to expect and reduce the temptation for spontaneous bursts of prohibited activity. Any medications should be given as prescribed, and owners should observe their dog's mobility and comfort levels daily to detect any changes that might indicate problems.

Home environment modifications can significantly improve comfort and safety for dogs with joint conditions. Provide supportive, orthopedic bedding that cushions joints and makes resting comfortable. Ramps or steps help dogs access furniture, beds, or vehicles without jumping, which stresses joints. Non-slip flooring or rugs on slippery surfaces prevent sliding that can cause injury or pain. Keep food and water bowls at a comfortable height that does not require excessive bending. In multi-level homes, consider limiting access to stairs or supervising stair use to prevent falls. Remove obstacles that might cause dogs to make sudden movements or jumps.

Maintaining quality of life is a priority for dogs with osteochondritis dissecans, and these dogs can live happy, fulfilling lives with appropriate management. Focus on activities your dog can comfortably enjoy rather than those that are now restricted. Mental stimulation through puzzle toys, training sessions, and interactive play helps keep dogs engaged and happy even when physical activity must be limited. Social interaction with family members and appropriate dog friends provides emotional well-being. Many dogs with managed OCD can still enjoy walks, gentle play, and swimming, which provide both physical exercise and mental enrichment without excessive joint stress.

Ongoing monitoring and veterinary care remain important throughout the dog's life after an OCD diagnosis. Regular veterinary checkups allow assessment of joint health and adjustment of any management strategies as needed. Watch for signs that might indicate increasing arthritis or discomfort, such as stiffness after rest, reluctance to exercise, or subtle changes in gait. Keeping a simple log of activity levels, any lameness observed, and medication given helps track patterns and provides useful information for veterinary visits. Radiographic rechecks may be recommended periodically to monitor for arthritis progression. Promptly address any new or worsening symptoms rather than assuming they are normal for your dog's condition.

Caregiver support is an often-overlooked aspect of managing a dog with a chronic orthopedic condition. Caring for a dog with OCD or any ongoing health condition can be emotionally and financially demanding. Connect with online communities or local groups of pet owners dealing with similar conditions for support and practical advice. Discuss financial considerations openly with your veterinary team, as various options often exist to manage costs while providing good care. Consider pet insurance for future expenses if your dog's condition may require ongoing treatment. Take care of your own well-being, recognizing that providing good care for a dog with health needs is rewarding but can also be stressful. Your veterinary team is a resource not just for your dog's medical needs but also for guidance on practical management strategies and support resources.

Large and giant breed dogs have the highest prevalence of osteochondritis dissecans, with certain breeds showing particularly elevated risk. Labrador Retrievers and Golden Retrievers are among the most commonly affected breeds, with OCD frequently diagnosed in the shoulder joint. Great Danes, Rottweilers, and Bernese Mountain Dogs also show high incidence rates. German Shepherds, Newfoundlands, and Saint Bernards are frequently diagnosed with OCD. Standard Poodles and Irish Wolfhounds are also overrepresented among affected dogs. The common factors among these breeds include rapid growth during puppyhood, large adult body size, and genetic predisposition to developmental orthopedic conditions. Male dogs appear to be affected more frequently than females in most studies, though the reasons for this difference are not fully understood.

Moderately at-risk breeds include medium to large dogs that may not reach giant sizes but still experience significant growth rates. Border Collies, Australian Shepherds, and English Setters have been reported with OCD. Breeds involved in athletic activities may be diagnosed more frequently partly because lameness is more noticeable in active dogs. Mixed breed dogs of large body type can also develop OCD, particularly those with heritage from predisposed breeds. The condition is rare but not impossible in small breeds, so lameness in any growing dog should receive appropriate veterinary attention regardless of breed. Dogs from lines with known OCD occurrence are at higher risk than those from screened, cleared lines.

Screening recommendations for breeds at risk of osteochondritis dissecans focus on identifying affected dogs before breeding and detecting the condition early in pet dogs. Breeders of predisposed breeds should obtain orthopedic evaluations of breeding stock and maintain records of OCD and other developmental orthopedic conditions in their lines. The Orthopedic Foundation for Animals provides evaluation and registry services for various orthopedic conditions. Puppy buyers should request health clearances and ask about the incidence of OCD in the breeder's dogs. For individual pet dogs of high-risk breeds, awareness of OCD symptoms and prompt veterinary evaluation of any persistent lameness allows early diagnosis. Some veterinarians recommend baseline radiographs of shoulders and elbows in high-risk breeds at around five to six months of age to detect early lesions, particularly in puppies from affected lines.

Osteochondritis dissecans frequently occurs alongside other developmental orthopedic conditions, particularly in dogs with genetic predisposition to skeletal abnormalities. Elbow dysplasia is commonly seen in conjunction with OCD and may involve fragmented coronoid process, ununited anconeal process, or elbow incongruity in addition to or instead of OCD lesions. Hip dysplasia shares similar risk factors with OCD including genetics, rapid growth, and nutritional influences, so affected dogs often have multiple orthopedic diagnoses. Panosteitis, a self-limiting condition causing shifting leg lameness in growing dogs, may occur in the same dogs or breeds predisposed to OCD. Hypertrophic osteodystrophy is another developmental bone condition that can affect young large breed dogs during similar growth periods.

Several conditions present with similar symptoms to osteochondritis dissecans and must be differentiated through careful diagnosis. Elbow dysplasia causes front leg lameness similar to shoulder OCD but affects the elbow joint. Traumatic injuries including soft tissue strains, fractures, and ligament tears can cause acute lameness in young dogs. Panosteitis causes shifting lameness that can mimic the early intermittent signs of OCD. Joint infections, though less common, can cause pain and lameness localized to a single joint. Bone tumors, rare in young dogs but possible, should be considered in the differential diagnosis. Accurate diagnosis is essential because treatment approaches differ significantly between these conditions, and misdiagnosis can delay appropriate care.

Potential complications of osteochondritis dissecans include progressive osteoarthritis, which develops in most affected joints to varying degrees over time. Even with successful surgical treatment, the disruption of the normal cartilage surface creates conditions favorable for degenerative joint disease. Loose cartilage fragments can cause ongoing joint damage if not removed. Chronic lameness and muscle atrophy may occur in undertreated or untreated cases. Compensatory injuries in other limbs can develop from altered gait and weight distribution. Secondary behavioral changes including decreased activity and weight gain may compound musculoskeletal problems. Early, appropriate treatment minimizes but does not eliminate the risk of long-term complications, making prevention and early detection important strategies for the best possible outcomes.