How Chiropractic Care Can Help Dogs with Hip Dysplasia

If your dog hesitates to climb stairs, struggles to rise after resting, or avoids jumping into the car — they may be showing early signs of hip dysplasia, a common orthopedic condition that can affect dogs of all breeds and sizes.

At Campbell K9 Chiro in Alexandria, Virginia, Dr. Thomas J. Campbell — a Gonstead-trained chiropractor — provides gentle, natural chiropractic care to help dogs with hip dysplasia move more comfortably and maintain better quality of life.

Understanding Hip Dysplasia in Dogs

Hip dysplasia occurs when the ball and socket joint of the hip don’t fit together properly. Instead of gliding smoothly, the bones rub and grind, leading to pain, inflammation, and eventually arthritis.

It’s often caused by a mix of genetics, rapid growth, poor nutrition, or overexertion during puppyhood. Large-breed dogs like Labradors, German Shepherds, Golden Retrievers, and Great Danes are especially prone to it — but any dog can develop it.

Common signs of hip dysplasia include:

• Difficulty standing up after lying down

• Limping or stiffness in the hind legs

• “Bunny-hopping” gait (using both back legs together when running)

• Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs

• Muscle loss in the hindquarters

• Pain or whining when hips are touched

How Chiropractic Care Supports Dogs with Hip Dysplasia

While chiropractic care can’t “cure” hip dysplasia, it can dramatically improve mobility, reduce pain, and slow joint degeneration.

At Campbell K9 Chiro, Dr. Campbell focuses on aligning and balancing your dog’s entire musculoskeletal system — not just the hip joints. Here’s how chiropractic adjustments help:

1. Improves Joint Alignment and Movement

When a dog’s hips are unstable, other joints — like the lower back, knees, and shoulders — work harder to compensate. Over time, this creates additional strain and pain.Gentle, precise adjustments restore motion to restricted areas, improving balance and weight distribution across the body.

2. Reduces Inflammation and Nerve Pressure

Hip misalignment can irritate nearby nerves and soft tissues. Chiropractic care helps release tension, improving circulation and nerve communication so your dog’s body can heal more naturally.

3. Enhances Comfort and Range of Motion

Regular chiropractic visits can help keep your dog more flexible and comfortable — often allowing them to walk, stretch, and play again without limping or hesitation.

4. Slows Degeneration

By improving spinal and joint mobility, chiropractic care may help slow the progression of arthritis and joint wear, extending your dog’s active years.

5. Complements Veterinary Care

Chiropractic care is a wonderful complement to traditional veterinary treatment. Many dogs benefit most when chiropractic care is part of an integrated plan that includes weight management, proper exercise, and nutrition.

What to Expect at Campbell K9 Chiro

Dr. Campbell begins with a gentle evaluation of your dog’s gait, spine, and hip motion. Every dog is different — so each adjustment is customized based on breed, size, age, and specific condition.

Most dogs relax during treatment, and many show immediate signs of relief — tail wagging, easier walking, or laying more comfortably after the visit.

The focus is always on gentle, specific, and effective adjustments that promote long-term wellness, not just short-term relief.

Real Results, Real Relief

Clients often notice that after a few sessions:

• Their dog gets up more easily

• Walks longer distances

• Plays or climbs stairs with more confidence

• Appears happier and less stiff

Small improvements add up — and every step your dog takes without pain is a step toward a healthier, more active life.

Give Your Dog the Gift of Movement

Your dog’s comfort and mobility matter — and they deserve care that supports their body naturally. Chiropractic care is safe, gentle, and effective for dogs with hip dysplasia or any mobility challenges.

If your furry friend has been slowing down, schedule an evaluation with Dr. Thomas J. Campbell, Alexandria’s trusted Gonstead-trained chiropractor and experienced K9 chiropractic practitioner. Together, we can help your dog live a longer, happier, pain-free life.

Campbell K9 Chiro – 2616 Sherwood Hall Lane, Suite 101, Alexandria, VA 22306

Call or Text: (703) 619-1002