Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) of the Shoulder in Dogs

Description of the Condition

Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) is a developmental orthopedic disease where the cartilage in a joint develops abnormally and fails to attach properly to the underlying bone.

  • In the shoulder, this creates flaps of cartilage that can cause pain, inflammation, and lameness.

  • Most commonly affects young, rapidly growing large-breed dogs.

  • If untreated, it can lead to chronic arthritis and long-term mobility issues.

Common Causes

  • Genetics: Inherited predisposition in certain breeds.

  • Rapid growth and nutrition: High-calorie diets or excessive calcium during growth may contribute.

  • Biomechanical stress: Repetitive stress or trauma to developing joints.

Breeds at Risk

  • Large and giant breeds (Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, Rottweilers, Great Danes, Bernese Mountain Dogs).

  • Male dogs may be slightly more predisposed.

  • Rare in small breeds.

Possible Treatments

  • Conservative Management (mild cases): Weight control, restricted activity, pain relief, physical therapy.

  • Surgical Management (moderate to severe cases): Removal of cartilage flap and smoothing of the joint surface via arthroscopy or open surgery.

  • Post-surgery, most dogs experience significant improvement with proper rehabilitation.

Role of Rehabilitation

Post-Surgical Recovery

  • Structured exercise programs to restore mobility and strength without stressing the healing joint.

  • Gait retraining to normalize stride and prevent compensation.

Temperature Therapies, Stretching, and Recovery Massage

  • Cold therapy immediately after surgery to reduce swelling.

  • Heat therapy later to improve circulation and reduce stiffness.

  • Gentle stretching to maintain range of motion in the shoulder.

  • Massage to reduce tension in surrounding muscles.

Strengthening and Stability

  • Controlled leash walks progressing over weeks.

  • Low-impact strengthening exercises for the shoulder and core.

  • Proprioceptive work (balance pads, controlled movements) to stabilize the joint.

  • Hydrotherapy for safe strengthening without overloading the shoulder.

Measuring Recovery and Communication

  • Goniometry to measure range of motion.

  • Progress notes with mobility, gait, and pain scores.

  • Outcome tracking: lameness reduction, endurance, and ability to return to activity.

  • Active owner involvement in daily home exercises.

What Owners Can Do at Home

At-home care is critical to your dog’s recovery after OCD surgery or during conservative management.

Safe Handling and Environment

  • Restrict high-impact activity (no running, jumping, or rough play) until cleared.

  • Leash-only walks during recovery.

  • Provide non-slip flooring and a supportive orthopedic bed.

  • Avoid stairs or provide ramps.

Home Exercises (When Cleared by Your Rehab Practitioner)

  • Passive Range of Motion (PROM): Gentle flexion/extension of the shoulder.

  • Controlled Walks: Start with very short sessions and increase gradually.

  • Strengthening Work: Sit-to-stand, incline walking, and later balance work.

  • Massage: Reduces stiffness and improves comfort.

Long-Term Support

  • Maintain lean body weight to reduce joint strain.

  • Provide joint-supportive nutrition (ask your vet about glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3s).

  • Keep activity consistent but controlled — regular, low-impact exercise is best.

  • Monitor for recurrence of lameness or stiffness.

Monitoring and Communication

  • Keep a daily log of activity, pain, and mobility.

  • Watch for warning signs: renewed limping, reluctance to use the leg, swelling.

  • Share updates with your vet and rehab team regularly.

Final Thoughts

Osteochondritis Dissecans of the shoulder can be painful, but with early diagnosis, treatment, and structured rehabilitation, most dogs return to excellent function and quality of life. Consistent at-home care and safe exercise are key to long-term joint health.