 |
|
Early Detection of Osteoarthritis in Dogs Could Open Doors for a Cure
June 11, 2009COLUMBIA, Mo. - Osteoarthritis is commonly diagnosed in the late and irreversible stages, when treatment can only be expected to decrease pain and slow progression of disease. Because osteoarthritis is a widespread problem in dogs, horses and humans, doctors and veterinarians need a precise way to diagnose the disease early and accurately. Now, University of Missouri researchers are investigating potential biomarkers in dogs for early diagnosis of osteoarthritis, which could help identify patients at increased risk of developing osteoarthritis.
"By developing methods for earlier diagnosis of osteoarthritis, prevention or even curative treatment strategies to manage the disease become more realistic," said James Cook, professor of veterinary medicine and surgery, and the William & Kathryn Allen Distinguished Professor in Orthopedic Surgery. "Biomarkers could detect the disease before pain and swelling occurs, and owners could take preventative measures, such as modifying activities or diet, helping their pets lose weight and strengthen their joints, to reduce the likelihood of their dogs developing osteoarthritis."
In the study, researchers examined potential biomarkers in synovial fluid. Synovial fluid, which is fluid that lubricates the joints, is known to have sensitive and rapid responses to joint injury. Taking samples from dogs, researchers found that synovial fluid quantity and quality were altered in injured stifle joints (the joint in the hind limbs of dogs that is the equivalent joint to the human knee).
"At the MU Comparative Orthopaedic Laboratory, we are particularly interested in identification and validation of biomarkers that can detect early stages of osteoarthritis to provide accurate diagnostic and prognostic information prior to the onset of clinical disease for people and for pets," Cook said. "Our team, led by Drs. Kuroki, Stoker and Garner, is making tremendous progress in developing simple tests on blood, urine and synovial fluid that show great promise for helping us diagnose impending osteoarthritis before it is too late to help the patient in the most effective manner."
Osteoarthritis causes degradation of articular cartilage, leading to pain, inflammation and loss of motion in the joint. Veterinarians predict that 20 percent of middle-aged dogs and 90 percent of older dogs have osteoarthritis in one or more joints and the percentages are even higher for the human population.
The study, "Examination of Synovial Fluid Hyaluronan Quantity and Quality in Stifle Joints of Dogs with Osteoarthritis," was published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research. It was coauthored by Cook; Rachel Venable, doctoral student; Aaron Stoker, research assistant professor; Cristi Cook, clinical assistant professor; and Mary Cockrell, research specialist.
University of Missouri
"At the MU Comparative Orthopaedic Laboratory, we are particularly interested in identification and validation of biomarkers that can detect early stages of osteoarthritis to provide accurate diagnostic and prognostic information prior to the onset of clinical disease for people and for pets," Cook said. "Our team, led by Drs. Kuroki, Stoker and Garner, is making tremendous progress in developing simple tests on blood, urine and synovial fluid that show great promise for helping us diagnose impending osteoarthritis before it is too late to help the patient in the most effective manner."
Osteoarthritis causes degradation of articular cartilage, leading to pain, inflammation and loss of motion in the joint. Veterinarians predict that 20 percent of middle-aged dogs and 90 percent of older dogs have osteoarthritis in one or more joints and the percentages are even higher for the human population.
The study, "Examination of Synovial Fluid Hyaluronan Quantity and Quality in Stifle Joints of Dogs with Osteoarthritis," was published in the American Journal of Veterinary Research. It was coauthored by Cook; Rachel Venable, doctoral student; Aaron Stoker, research assistant professor; Cristi Cook, clinical assistant professor; and Mary Cockrell, research specialist.
University of Missouri
Osteoarthritis Current Events and Osteoarthritis News RSSStudy finds link between childhood physical abuse and arthritis
Adults who had experienced physical abuse as children have 56 per cent higher odds of osteoarthritis compared to those who have not been abused, according to a new study by University of Toronto researchers.
Trial raises doubts over alternative pain therapy for arthritis
Copper bracelets and magnetic wrist straps are ineffective in relieving arthritis pain, according to a new study led by a University of York academic.
Scientists find obesity alone does not cause arthritis in animals
The link between obesity and osteoarthritis may be more than just the wear and tear on the skeleton caused by added weight.
Hormone promises to keep joint injuries from causing long-term osteoarthritis
An existing osteoporosis drug is the first ever found to prevent cartilage loss from osteoarthritis following injury to a joint, and may also regenerate some cartilage that has been lost to osteoarthritis.
Getting better visualization of joint cartilage through cationic CT contrast agents
In its quest to find new strategies to treat osteoarthritis and other diseases, a Boston University-led research team has reported finding a new computer tomography contrast agent for visualizing the special distributions of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs) - the anionic sugars that account for the strength of joint cartilage.
Cognitive behavioral therapy improves sleep and pain in people with osteoarthritis
A study in the Aug. 15 issue of the Journal of Clinical Sleep Medicine shows that the use of cognitive behavioral therapy for insomnia (CBT-I) is an effective treatment for older patients with osteoarthritis and comorbid insomnia.
New 'biofactories' produce rare healing substances in the endangered Devil's claw plant
Deep in Africa's Kalahari Desert lies the "Devil's claw," a plant that may hold the key to effective treatments for arthritis, tendonitis and other illnesses that affect millions each year.
The disease markers that will aid arthritis research
A combination of biochemical and MRI markers will allow improved measurement of osteoarthritis (OA) progression.
Study to assess hip exercises as treatment for osteoarthritis in the knee joints
Researchers at Rush University Medical Center are testing a novel regimen of hip-muscle exercises to decrease the load on the knee joints in patients with osteoarthritis.
Obesity contributes to rapid cartilage loss
Obesity, among other factors, is strongly associated with an increased risk of rapid cartilage loss, according to a study published in the August issue of Radiology.
More Osteoarthritis Current Events and Osteoarthritis News Articles
 |
The Arthritis Handbook: Improve Your Health and Manage the Pain of Osteoarthritis (A DiaMedica Guide to Optimum Wellness) by M.D. Grant Cooper (Author) According to conventional wisdom, arthritis pain is an inevitable part of aging. Not so, says Dr. Grant Cooper in this practical, accessible guide. For those who do develop osteoarthritic conditions, this book offers a blend of commonsense advice, dietary info, targeted exercise, and tips on useful supplements. According to the author, sufferers can often entirely avoid the use of medication, injection therapy, and surgery — approaches that, when necessary, can be used as an opportunity to return to exercise and nutrition to slow the disease’s progress. The book features easy, illustrated exercises, including aerobics and strength training, that can be done at home, at a gym, or under a trainer’s or physical therapist’s supervision. Nutritional and supplement strategies —... |
 |
Osteoarthritis: Preventing and Healing Without Drugs by Peter Bales (Author) Osteoarthritis affects over 20 million Americans and is the most common degenerative disorder in the United States. It causes more disability than any other degenerative disease and is occurring in epidemic proportions throughout the world. In this novel approach to understanding and treating osteoarthritis, orthopaedic surgeon Peter Bales highlights the nutritional connection to this painful and debilitating condition, Dr Bales focuses on new genetic research, which shows that the same poor nutrition responsible for causing increased inflammation in our bodies, along with epidemic rates of obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, is also fuelling the development of osteoarthritis. Among the topics discussed are the following: the mechanisms by which our joints become destroyed. The culprits... |
 |
The Arthritis Cure, Revised and Updated: The Medical Miracle That Can Halt, Reverse, And May Even Cure Osteoarthritis by Jason Theodosakis (Author), Sheila Buff (Author), Barry Fox (Author) Since its original publication in 1996, The Arthritis Cure has swept the nation, providing amazing relief for the millions who suffer chronic arthritis pain. By outlining a nine-point program that includes a new effective supplement, ASU, The Arthritis Cure Revised Edition describes a program that can halt, reverse, and possibly even cure degenerative osteoarthritis. Based on the most recent and cutting-edge medical research, this invaluable resource promises readers: --The latest research indicating that prescription arthritis drugs are not only expensive but can also be dangerous--they can raise blood pressure and damage the kidneys. --New studies supporting the use of glucosamine and chondroitin to treat arthritic symptoms. --Dr. Theodosaki's ratings of the current... |
 |
Cosamin DS Joint Health Supplement, Capsules, 210-Count Bottle by Cosamin DS Glucosamine (FCHG49), Chondroitin Sulfate (TRH122). Exclusive formula. Protect your cartilage with the only brand proven to reduce joint pain. (These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.) Easy to swallow. Exclusive trademarked ingredients. The Orthopedic Surgeon and Rheumatologist No. 1 recommended brand. Safe and Economical: There are no known interactions or serious side effects with CosaminDS. Exclusive ingredients allows reduction in the number of capsules taken over time. CosaminDS is Recommended by Doctors and Pharmacists for Joint Health: The only brand proven effective in controlled, published US studies to reduce joint pain. Shown in laboratory tests to protect... |
 |
The Arthritis Foundation's Guide to Good Living with Osteoarthritis, 2nd Edition by Dorothy Foltz-Gray (Author) The Arthritis Foundation's Guide to Good Living With Osteoarthritis provides clear, understandable information on drugs, surgery, do-it-yourself treatments, exercise, alternative therapies and more to beat the pain of osteoarthritis. |
 |
Stop Osteoarthritis Now: Halting the Baby Boomers' Disease by Harris H. Mcilwain (Author), Debra Fulgham Bruce (Author) What exactly is this debilitating disease? It is an inflammation in or around the joints caused by wear and tear on the cartilage and bone, resulting in pain, swelling, or stiffness in the back, knees, hips, hands, or other joints. The good news is that osteoarthritis can be successfully treated and may even be delayed or prevented. In Stop Osteoarthritis Now! Dr. Harris H. McIlwain provides the reader with a five-step basic treatment plan for self-help involving moist heat, exercise, weight control, medication, and joint protection; a three-step prevention program; a guide to nonstandard treatments, such as vitamin supplements, creams, spas, meditation, acupuncture, and more; and stress-reduction tools that can help end osteoarthritis pain, including relaxation techniques, visualization,... |
 |
Osteoarthritis: Diagnosis and Medical/Surgical Management by Roland W Moskowitz (Editor), Roy D Altman (Editor), Joseph A Buckwalter (Editor), Victor M Goldberg (Editor), Marc C Hochberg (Editor) Written by the foremost experts, this text is a comprehensive clinical reference on osteoarthritis. Chapters review current information on the epidemiology, etiopathogenesis, and pathology of osteoarthritis, the biochemistry and molecular and cell biology of articular cartilage, and experimental models of osteoarthritis. Major sections focus on clinical presentations, roentgenologic and laboratory diagnosis, and treatment, including pharmacologic treatment, intra-articular therapy, surgery, arthroscopy, and complementary and alternative medicine. The authors discuss the indications, outcomes, and complications of various orthopaedic procedures. Chapters present orthopaedic approaches to osteoarthritis of various joints--the shoulder, hand, wrist, elbow, hip, knee, foot, ankle, and... |
 |
Osteoarthritis (The Facts) by Nigel K Arden (Author), Elizabeth Arden (Author), David Hunter (Author) Osteoarthritis is a common disorder of the joints that affects more than 2 million people in the UK, and studies suggest that this number will double in the next 20 years. The condition is strongly associated with ageing and is believed to affect up to 30% of people over 60 years of age. There are a number of misconceptions surrounding osteoarthritis and this, combined with the lack of effective drug treatments, often leaves patients dispirited and confused about their condition. Osteoarthritis: The Facts helps patients and their carers better understand their condition with a view towards self-management. The text is designed to be easy to read and is organized into two main parts. Part 1 details what osteoarthritis is, what causes it, who it affects, what the main symptoms are,... |
 |
All About Osteoarthritis: The Definitive Resource for Arthritis Patients and Their Families by Nancy E. Lane (Author), Daniel J. Wallace (Author) Osteoarthritis afflicts about 25 million people in the United States--two-thirds of all people over 65--and the numbers will only grow in the coming years as baby boomers age. Yet few who suffer from this disease know much about it--how to relieve the pain, what exercises might help lessen their suffering, how to cut down on visits to the doctor. In All About Osteoarthritis, two leading authorities on the disease--Nancy E. Lane and Daniel J. Wallace--join forces to provide the most up-to-date and comprehensive discussion of osteoarthritis available, explaining what osteoarthritis is, how patients can help themselves, and how to find the best resources to manage the disorder. The authors offer information in a clear and accessible style, with detailed illustrations showing how key... |
 |
Exomine Osteoarthritis Joint Support (120 Caps) by Progressive Health Osteoarthritis can change your life, especially if you have previously been an active person. However, scientifically proven Exomine can give you back a level of normal activity. Get relief from symptoms of osteoarthritis without the major side effects of prescription drugs.Joint pain is a natural part of aging, but joint pain can also be as a result of illnesses such as osteoarthritis. It is for this latter type of joint pain that Exomine was created. Exomine helps by minimizing pain, healing and rehabilitating cartilage and joints, therefore leading to a healthier body. The supplement, made from a combination of natural products, vitamins, and minerals has been scientifically proven to help improve arthritic conditions. Exomine actually works to rebuild damaged cartilage and reduce the... |
| © 2009 BrightSurf.com |