TREATMENT METHODS FOR PAIN IN THE OSTEOARTHRITIC PATIENT

Osteoarthritis is one of the most common clinical problems for which p et owners seek veterinary consultation. Proper management of osteoarth ritis is rewarding to the patient, client, and veterinarian alike. The foundation for treatment of osteoarthritis is weight control, exercis e moderation, and administration of antiinflammatory agents. This sect ion of the text addresses clinically important mechanisms of osteoarth ritis and the use of anti-inflammatory agents targeted to reduce pain and inflammation associated with the disease.