Laurie's Blogs.

Another research article crossed my path recently and it got me to thinking about this topic – lifestyle modification and exercise.  This particular article was a systematic review… and I’m just going to hop to the conclusion.

“This systematic review supports the inclusion of additional lifestyle modifications to a traditional exercise program, for pain intensity, joint stiffness and physical function for individuals with knee OA.”

Okay.  Honestly, I didn’t find this to be earth shattering!  As an owner of two knees and various other less than perfect joints, it makes sense.  Exercise and don’t overdo it.  My knees, hips, ankles, and shoulders can tell you this… without research to back it up!

However, it made me think about cases I’ve had over the years.  Cases where I had to council owners about what they should and should not do with their dog.  I can think of cases where I have had to tell owners that I think their dog has some osteoarthritis in a joint, but that it’s okay, they just need to modify their activity and do some specific exercises and/or maintenance physio.  Sometimes they seem disappointed.  “So, he can’t go on 8 hour mountain hikes anymore?”  “Oh no, but she loves to play non-stop with our other dog.”  “But this was the dog I was hoping to be my next agility dog.”  

So, really, what is needed is a bit of psychological counseling!  Reassurances.  Alternate activity suggestions.  Examples from your own life (your own joints).

I have found that on some occasions, owners catastrophize.  However, if you can give them some examples, they can come around to realizing that it’s not all that bad.  “No, an 8 hour hike won’t be great for his joints, but he could still do some shorter hikes, or some walks on flatter terrain.”  “She can still have some play sessions, but perhaps increase the amount of ‘rest sessions’ as well, and just watch that their play doesn’t get too rough.”  “You might not be able to compete in higher levels of agility with these hips, buy you could complete in ‘specials’, or try ‘Rally-Obedience’ as an option.”  “I don’t play basketball anymore.  My joints can’t take it.  But I can go for walks and lift weights at the gym, which I enjoy as well.”

Sometimes people just need to be shown some perspective.  There’s a lot of psychology involved when you are working with people and their pets.  It’s important to listen to what our owners say, and provide a perspective on the situation.  It’s a gentle redirection, some hope, a reminder of what’s important… but this can make all the difference in the world.  And honestly, I love this part.  It’s an honour to be a part of the human-animal relationship in helping to guide owners along their life journey with their pet.

So, that’s how this blog ends!

Until next time…

Cheers!  Laurie

Reference:

Sattler L, Kan A, Hing W, Vertullo C. The addition of structured lifestyle modifications to a traditional exercise program for the management of patients with knee osteoarthritis: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised trials. Musculoskelet Sci Pract. 2023 Nov;68:102858.