Osteoarthritis: pre-existing conditions clauses.
To maximize insurance reimbursement for osteoarthritis in dogs, it is essential for the Veterinarian to provide a detailed and medically accurate description that clearly outlines the condition, its impact on the dog's health, and the necessity of treatment. Here’s an optimal way to describe osteoarthritis in dogs while highlighting the areas of necessity: The date of diagnosis must be 180 days after purchasing most insurance policies.
Diagnosis: Canine Osteoarthritis
Description: Osteoarthritis (OA) in dogs is a chronic, progressive joint disease characterized by the degeneration of articular cartilage, the formation of osteophytes, and synovial inflammation. This condition commonly affects the hips, elbows, knees, and spine, leading to significant pain, decreased mobility, and reduced quality of life. Your Vet can diagnose individual areas of disability and these body parts must be benefitted by the brace.A blanket diagnosis of Osteoarthritis or Degenerative Disc Disease (IVDD) will most likely not be covered. BUT, ALWAYS TRY!
Clinical Signs:
Pain: Manifested as limping, stiffness, and reluctance to engage in physical activities such as walking, running, or jumping.
Swelling: Observable joint swelling due to inflammation.
Reduced Range of Motion: Noticeable difficulty in moving joints, often accompanied by audible clicking sounds.
-Behavioral Changes: Increased irritability, decreased activity levels, and changes in appetite due to chronic pain.
Diagnostic Findings:
Physical Examination: Palpation reveals joint effusion, crepitus, and pain on manipulation.
Radiographs: X-rays demonstrate narrowing of joint spaces, subchondral bone sclerosis, and osteophyte formation.
Synovial Fluid Analysis: Indicates inflammation with elevated cell counts and protein levels.
American Animal Hospital Association (AAHA) Treatment Plan:
Medications:
- Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) to reduce pain and inflammation.
- Disease-modifying osteoarthritis drugs (DMOADs) to slow disease progression.
Nutritional Supplements:
- Glucosamine and chondroitin sulfate to support cartilage health.
- Omega-3 fatty acids for their anti-inflammatory properties.
Physical Therapy and Chiropractic:
- Regular low-impact exercise to maintain muscle mass and joint mobility including dynamic bracing to support and prevent further weakness.
- Joint Manipulation to maintain discal integrity and prevent joint effusion/ drying. Proper alignment reduces chances for re-injury and joint maintains biomechanics.
- Hydrotherapy and therapeutic exercises designed to strengthen muscles and support joints as noted with the LuckyandLoyal.com Dynamic Dog Brace.
Weight Management:
- Diet plan to achieve and maintain optimal weight, reducing stress on affected joints.
Advanced Therapies:
- Intra-articular injections (e.g., hyaluronic acid, corticosteroids) for joint lubrication and inflammation control.
- Laser therapy and acupuncture for pain management and improved mobility.
Prognosis: With appropriate management, dogs with osteoarthritis can experience significant pain relief, improved mobility, and an enhanced quality of life. Continuous monitoring, bracing assisted exercise, quadruped focused support devices-such as the LuckyandLoyal.com Dynamic Mobility Brace, and adjustment of the treatment plan are crucial to address the progressive nature of the disease effectively.
Dr. Huma Q Pierce DC fCBPCertified AAHA Pain Management Champion