The management tool that helps practices produce multi-modal treatment plans for their arthritis patients.
The system focuses on 6 key areas for management:
A – Analgesia, B– Body Condition Score and diet, C- Care with environmental and drug toxicity issues, D – Disease modifications, E – Exercise and F- Follow up.
The system is web based and consists of a series of questions for the owner that can be filled in the waiting room on an iPad or a web enabled device, and a series of questions for the vet based on the clinical examination. (Fig.1.) The survey takes only a few minutes to complete. The program then uses an algorithm to generate suggestions for each of the 6 areas for management.
The plan uses a traffic light system to highlight areas for focus. The plan can be printed off and given to the owner along with the recommended exercises. There are over 100 exercises in the plan targeting range of motion, core stability, proprioception and strengthening.
The AIM-OA sys program increases owner compliance and helps build bonded clients.
Case Example. “Charlie” 7 year old MN Labrador Retriever.
History: Bilateral front leg lameness of 12 months duration. Poor response to NSAIDS and rest. X-rays confirmed bilateral elbow OA.
Clinical exam: Lame both front legs, BCS 7/9 weight 37.65kg. Pain, reduced ROM, fibrous thickening and crepitus both elbows. Charlie was put through AIMOA sys program and from the suggestions the following were selected to create the initial plan (Fig.2.):
A box NSAID, (Previcox);
B box Hill’s Metabolic plus Mobility;
C box rugs and runners for the laminate floors;
D box joint mobilisations to increase ROM of elbows plus laser and hydrotherapy.
E box 20 minutes’ walk twice daily with 5 minutes off the lead plus a home exercise program of elbow ROM and front leg strengthening exercises. (Fig.3, 4.)
Fig. 3 Elbow Extension. With the dog lying on its side, place one hand behind the elbow and upper part of the leg. Gently bring the lower part of the leg away from the head as if trying to straighten the elbow. Hold for 15 seconds. Repeats 3 times twice daily.
Fig. 4. Play Bow. Hold a treat in front of the dog’s nose and gently lower the treat to the floor bringing the dog into the play bow position. Reward and repeat 10 times twice daily.
F box revisit in 7 days.
The plan was implemented. Charlie made regular visits to clinic and each time a new plan was generated based on a new survey. After 3 months Charlie is no longer lame, BCS 4/9 weighing 34.2kg, increased elbow ROM, walks for 45 minutes off lead twice daily. He remains on NSAIDS and Hill’s Metabolic plus Mobility and continues with his home exercise program. He has regular check ups every 4-6 weeks. The owner is now a strong advocate of the practice.
