At Union Lake Veterinary Hospital, we want to give you an overview of the most common types of joint injections for pets and how they may help your furry family member.
Steroid Joint Injections
Steroid injections are often used to quickly reduce inflammation and pain inside the joint. They may be recommended for conditions like:
- Osteoarthritis
- Elbow or hip dysplasia
- Certain autoimmune joint diseases
Because steroids can sometimes affect cartilage health, they are typically used for short-term or acute pain relief rather than long-term management.
Orthobiologic Injections
Orthobiologics are treatments made from natural components of the body (either from your pet or a donor). They help repair tissue, reduce inflammation, and support healing. Common options include:
- Platelet-rich plasma (PRP): Uses platelets to encourage tissue repair and healing.
- Stem cell therapy: Helps reduce inflammation and regenerate damaged tissues.
These therapies are especially promising for pets with chronic joint problems.
Synthetic Hydrogel Injections
In some cases, a veterinarian may recommend synthetic gels that are injected directly into the joint. These gels can:
- Reduce inflammation
- Absorb shock in the joint
- Provide cushioning to ease movement
This option can give significant relief for pets with joint pain and help them regain mobility.
Hyaluronic Acid Injections
Hyaluronic acid is a natural substance found in healthy joints. When a pet’s body no longer produces enough, veterinarians may inject it to:
- Improve joint lubrication
- Enhance shock absorption
- Reduce stiffness and discomfort
This treatment can be especially useful for arthritic dogs and cats.
Synovetin
Synovetin is an innovative radiotherapy injection used to target joint inflammation. With just one injection, pets may experience long-lasting results, making it an exciting option for certain cases of arthritis.
Additional Subcutaneous Injections
Not all injections go directly into the joint. Some medications are given just under the skin to help with arthritis and joint pain, such as:
- Librela: Blocks specific pain-causing proteins in dogs with arthritis.
- Cartrophen (Pentosan Polysulfate): Helps protect cartilage and support joint repair.
Choosing the Right Treatment for Your Pet
Joint pain can take a toll on your pet’s quality of life, but the good news is there are many treatment options available. Your veterinarian will evaluate your pet’s health history, run any needed tests, and recommend the best plan for long-term comfort and mobility.
At Union Lake Veterinary Hospital, we are committed to helping pets live long, active, and pain-free lives. If your pet is showing signs of arthritis or joint problems, our team is here to guide you through the best treatment options. Call us today at (248) 363-1508 to schedule your pet’s appointment.