Hip Evaluations: How Orthopedic Surgeons Diagnose Joint Conditions in Dogs
When your dog shows signs of pain, stiffness, or difficulty moving, the cause is often related to their hips. Joint problems such as hip dysplasia, arthritis, or injury can significantly impact a pet’s mobility and quality of life. That’s where an experienced orthopedic vet like Dr. James Harrison comes in. As a board-certified veterinary orthopedic surgeon, Dr. Harrison specializes in identifying and treating a wide range of animal orthopedic injuries, including conditions affecting the hip joint.
At the Bone, Joint & Spine Clinic, hip evaluations are a crucial part of understanding your dog’s joint health and creating a treatment plan that restores comfort and function.
Why Hip Evaluations Matter
Dogs of all ages and breeds can experience hip issues. In some cases, the problem is genetic, as with canine hip dysplasia, while in others, it may stem from trauma or age-related wear. Regardless of the cause, a thorough hip evaluation by a dog orthopedic surgeon helps determine whether surgical or nonsurgical care will be most effective.
Common signs that may warrant a hip evaluation include:
- Limping or lameness in the hind legs
- Difficulty rising from a sitting or lying position
- Hesitance to climb stairs or jump
- Reduced activity levels
- Audible clicking or popping in the hip joint
If your dog shows any of these symptoms, scheduling a consultation with an orthopedic vet near me ensures you get answers and solutions quickly.
What to Expect During a Hip Evaluation
Dr. Harrison takes a comprehensive approach to hip evaluations. His role as a veterinary surgical specialist is not only to diagnose but also to explain all available treatment options. Here are the typical steps:
1. Physical Examination
The evaluation begins with a hands-on exam. Dr. Harrison checks for muscle loss, joint instability, and pain response. He may gently manipulate the hips to assess their range of motion.
2. Diagnostic Imaging
X-rays are often used to provide a clear picture of the hip joint. Imaging helps confirm whether issues such as canine hip dysplasia or arthritis are present and how advanced they may be.
3. Discussion of Treatment Options
Based on the exam and imaging results, Dr. Harrison will review options ranging from pain management and lifestyle adjustments to surgical solutions. For severe cases, canine orthopedic surgery such as canine hip dysplasia surgery may be recommended.
Surgical vs. Nonsurgical Care
Not every dog with hip issues needs surgery. Mild cases may be managed with medication, weight control, physical therapy, and activity modifications. However, when pain and mobility problems persist, surgical repair offers long-term relief.
At the Bone, Joint & Spine Clinic, Dr. Harrison provides a range of pet orthopedic surgery Columbus options. While he avoids unnecessarily advanced procedures, his experience covers practical and effective solutions such as:
- Orthopedic surgery for dogs – tailored to hip-related injuries or chronic issues.
- Pet bone fracture repair – addressing traumatic injuries that also affect hip alignment.
- Dog ligament surgery – for dogs with combined joint problems, such as hip and knee injuries.
For cat owners, Dr. Harrison also provides orthopedic surgery for cats, including cat fracture repair specialist services when a fall or accident impacts the hips or other joints. His skills as a cat orthopedic surgeon make him a trusted choice for feline patients, too.
When to Seek Care Immediately
Some hip issues develop slowly, while others occur suddenly after trauma. If your dog experiences a severe limp, inability to walk, or extreme pain, it's best to seek help right away. Many pet owners searching for emergency dog surgery near me find reassurance knowing the Bone, Joint & Spine Clinic can respond quickly to urgent cases.
A Trusted Columbus Orthopedic Vet
Dr. James Harrison's reputation as a dog knee surgery specialist and hip evaluation expert stems from years of dedicated surgical experience. He is both compassionate and practical in his approach, helping families choose the right level of care for their pets. Whether you need feline orthopedic surgery, dog ACL tear treatment, or a thorough hip evaluation, you can count on his expertise.
Supporting Lifelong Joint Health
Hip evaluations are not just about diagnosing existing problems - they also help prevent future complications. Early diagnosis and timely pet orthopedic surgery Columbus can minimize pain, restore function, and improve long-term mobility. This proactive approach is especially important for large breeds prone to hip issues and aging pets who may need added support.
Schedule Your Pet's Hip Evaluation
If your dog is showing signs of hip discomfort, don't wait until the condition worsens. A comprehensive evaluation can make all the difference in getting your pet back to a healthy, active life.
Call The Bone, Joint and Spine Clinic at (614) 889-9555 to schedule an evaluation with Dr. Harrison.
Early surgical intervention can make a significant difference in your pet's joint health and quality of life.
There is no charge for such evaluations and consultations.