All about Flare-ups

Understanding “Flare-Ups” in Medicine — and in Canine Osteoarthritis

If you’ve ever heard your vet mention that your dog is having a “flare-up,” you might wonder exactly what that means. The term is common in medicine — both human and veterinary — and it describes a temporary worsening of symptoms in a chronic condition.

What Is a “Flare-Up”?

A flare-up (also called a “flare”) refers to a period when the symptoms of a chronic disease suddenly become more intense. This can include increased pain, swelling, stiffness, or discomfort. After the flare subsides, symptoms usually return to their previous baseline level.

Flare-ups can happen in many long-term medical conditions, such as arthritis, allergies, inflammatory bowel disease, and autoimmune disorders. Essentially, they represent a spike in inflammation or irritation that “flares” up temporarily before settling down again.

Flare-Ups in Canine Osteoarthritis

In dogs with osteoarthritis (OA) - a progressive joint disease that causes inflammation, pain and degeneration of the cartilage, flare-ups are quite common. Even dogs whose arthritis is well-managed with medication, supplements, weight control and home adaptations can experience a flare-up.

During a OA flare-up, you may notice that your dog:

• Becomes stiffer or slower when getting up or moving

• Is reluctant to walk, jump, or go up and down steps and stairs

• Shows increased limping or favouring of one leg

• Has reduced enthusiasm for play or exercise

• Seems more irritable, restless or depressed due to the discomfort

  
  

These changes can appear suddenly, last for a few hours or days and occasionally a few weeks, and then they gradually improve.

What Causes a Flare-Up in Canine Osteoarthritis?

Flare-ups are typically triggered by factors that increase inflammation, stress, or strain on already affected joints. Common causes are listed below but essentially a microtrauma occurs within the joint which sets up the inflammatory response. This inflammation damages the cartilage structure and leads to further degradation of the joint. It is therefore really important to try and minimise microtraumas and flare-ups as much as possible.

• Overexertion or unusual activity – A long hike, an energetic play session, or slipping on a smooth floor can cause a microtrauma to an arthritic joint resulting in a flare-up.

• Cold or damp weather – Temperature and humidity changes can worsen joint stiffness and pain.

• Weight gain – Even small increases in body weight can put additional stress on joints and adipose tissue itself releases inflammatory mediators that damage cartilage further.

• Missed medication or supplement doses – Skipping pain relief or anti-inflammatory treatments can allow inflammation to build up.

• Injury or trauma – A minor sprain or strain or fall can worsen arthritis symptoms.

• Underlying illness or stress – Infections, poor sleep, or stress can amplify inflammation in the body.

  
  

How to Manage and Prevent Flare-Ups

While flare-ups can’t always be avoided, careful management can reduce their frequency and severity and also how well a dog recovers from a flare-up. Here’s how:

• Stick to a Consistent Routine. Dogs with arthritis do best with regular, gentle exercise rather than bursts of intense activity. Short controlled lead walks during a flare-up (if not rest) and low-impact activities help maintain muscle strength and joint flexibility without overloading the joints.

• Maintain a Healthy Weight. Extra weight is one of the biggest contributors to flare-ups. Work with your vet to ensure your dog’s diet supports joint health and keeps them lean.

• Use Joint-Friendly Surfaces - slippery flooring can cause so much damage to the joint and its surrounding structures such as muscles, tendons and ligaments. Provide soft bedding, non-slip mats, and ramps for getting onto furniture or into the car.

• Monitor Weather Changes. Some owners notice their dog’s arthritis worsens during cold or damp weather. Keeping your dog warm, dry, and comfortable indoors can make a big difference.

• Stay on Top of Medications and Supplements. Consistency is key. Pain relief medications, anti-inflammatories, and joint supplements (like omega-3 fatty acids or glucosamine/chondroitin) should be given as prescribed — not just when symptoms appear.

• Think about other modalities such a physiotherapy, laser therapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture and of course, clinical canine massage to help manage chronic pain.

7. Know Your Dog’s Limits

Every dog with arthritis has good days and bad days. Learning to recognize early signs of discomfort — like hesitation before jumping or a change in gait — allows you to rest your dog before a flare-up worsens.

The Bottom Line

A flare-up in canine osteoarthritis is a temporary but painful worsening of symptoms, often caused by overexertion, weather changes, or inconsistent management. The good news is that with a thoughtful care plan — combining medication, weight management, joint support, and gentle exercise — you can minimize these episodes and help your dog stay mobile and comfortable for as long as possible.

If your dog seems to be having a flare-up, contact your veterinary surgeon for advice. They can rule out other causes of pain, adjust treatment, and help your pet get back on their paws.