Night-time activity evaluation for dogs with chronic pain due to osteoarthritis
NCSU Comparative Pain Research Laboratory is performing a clinical investigation to determine night time activity levels in dogs suffering from osteoarthritis.
It is well recognized that human patients suffering from osteoarthritis have more pain in the evening hours. This circadian rhythm of pain can lead to significant disruption of sleep and increased restlessness. Studies investigating whether this phenomenon occurs in arthritic dogs have not been conducted, but presumably, similar patterns occur.
The aim of this study is to determine whether dogs with osteoarthritis are more restless at night than similar dogs that do not have osteoarthritis. The study will also aim to determine whether the administration of a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) to arthritic patients will significantly affect their night time activity.
This is a 5-week, prospective, randomly controlled, blinded study. We are looking for dogs with fore-limb and/or hind-limb lameness and radiographic evidence of osteoarthritis. Other criteria and benefits to the pet owner include:
Requirements:
- Fore-limb and/or hind-limb x-rays confirming osteoarthritis within the last six months (we can repeat or take these if needed)
- Not on any other drug analgesic medication (If the patient is currently on a NSAID, then they need to be off the NSAID for 2 weeks before entering the study)
- No clinically significant blood cell or biochemical abnormalities
- No urinary abnormalities
- No long acting corticosteroids within 8 weeks of entering the study
- Management needs to be kept constant for 5 weeks (no introduction of physical therapy; no planned change in exercise level)
- Will tolerate wearing a collar at all times
Benefits:
- Complete orthopedic evaluation by Board Certified Surgeon
- Complete blood counts free of charge
- Complete biochemical profile and urinalysis free of charge
- Survey x-rays (if required) free of charge
- Analgesia medication (approved for use in dogs) for 14 days free of charge
- Helping other dogs live more comfortably with osteoarthritis
If you have any clients with dogs that would benefit from participating in this study or if you are an owner with a dog that may fit this study, please contact either Duncan Lascelles or Ben Wernham.