In this episode, Dr Michele Broadhurst shares her integrative approach to managing osteoarthritis and chronic pain in dogs, drawing on her expertise in chiropractic, rehabilitation, dry needling, and myofascial therapy. She explains why successful treatment requires looking beyond the affected joint to consider the whole patient, including movement, inflammation, gut health, and lifestyle. Michele and Hannah discuss the importance of early intervention, collaborative multidisciplinary care, realistic home exercise programmes, and empowering owners to make simple but meaningful changes. Together, they highlight that while osteoarthritis cannot be cured, a proactive, multimodal approach can dramatically improve comfort, mobility, and quality of life.
Guest Bio:
Dr Broadhurst graduated from Chiropractic college in South Africa in 2003 and as a Certified Sports Chiropractor in 2004. Michele is also certified with the International Veterinary Chiropractic Association. Being the first certified animal chiropractor in South Africa Michele built a very successful large and small animal practice specializing in animal chiropractic, dry needling and rehabilitation.
Dr Broadhurst and her husband owned and ran a human chiropractic and multidisciplinary clinic for 15 years and she is now co-medical director of an integrative veterinary clinic in Dallas Texas. She is published in several medical journals and lectures both nationally and internationally on the subject of myofascial pain in animals.
Referenced Links:
Integrative Animal Solutions
Rehab4Pets
International Veterinary Chiropractic Association
5 Key Take Home Points:
Osteoarthritis is a whole-body condition—successful management goes far beyond treating the affected joint.
Small, consistent changes at home can make a bigger difference than complicated treatment plans.
Movement is medicine—keeping dogs active in the right way helps maintain strength, confidence, and function.
There is no one-size-fits-all approach; every dog needs an individualised management plan.
The best outcomes come from teamwork between owners, vets, and rehabilitation professionals.
Learn more about CAM
CAM website - CAM Education Centre - The Pain Vet
Chronic Pain Symposium - CAM Shop - CAM Podcast
Socials for Professionals:
Facebook pro - LinkedIn - Instagram
Socials for Caregivers:
Facebook - Instagram - Holly's Army
Have questions send them to: podcast@caninearthritis.co.uk
Join us next week for the final episode of the “Complementary Therapies” chapter!
