OCD Osteochondrosis Dissecans

Many of the dog breeds that are of the large rapidly growingvariety, are affected by Osteochondrosis Dissecans. The age of onsetis usually between 4 and 12 months of age. This condition most oftenoccurs in the shoulders of elbows, but it can affect other joints aswell. Cartilage covers the head of the long bones, forming a joint. This cartilage serves as a cushion, which is subject to stress and prone todamage. Cracks can form in the cartilage, the cartilage itself cantear - forming flaps, or sections of the cartilage can tear away fromthe bone - free floating in or near the joint. The damaged cartilageleads to inflammation of the joint (arthritis), pain and lameness. OCD is thought to be a combination of genetic and environmentalfactors. Genetic factors may be direct (polygenetic), or indirect(improper conformation of the parent(s) passed on to the offspring).Environmental factors can range from poor diet to trauma induced. Small cracks in the cartilage can occasionally be healed throughstrict confinement. Other cases usually require surgical correction.