Hi! Our 10ish year old rescue, Ralph, started a mild limp in January. This mainly occurred upon waking in the morning. He is typically very energetic, loves his walks but is slowing down as he gets older.

The first Vet visits, we did xrays, physical exam and bloodwork. Nothing. Arthritis or muscle strain was the initial call. At the next visit, we upped Cosequin to 2x a day and got 7 days of Carprofen. 

We also got rid of his big beanbag style bed that he loved to feel secure in, but was probably making him too comfortable. We limited movement, jumping and baracaded off the steps since he's a velcro dog and will follow me through the house all day.

He did great for months- new beds, the addl supplements and plenty of rest, letting him call the shots on walks, rolling and zoomies. It was like he was young again.

This week, it happened again but a bit worse. Almost no weight on same front leg, back legs are "off" from imbalance and navigating steps were impossible. Started Carprofen again w meals. Will need to go to vet for another check I guess and perhaps start something like gabapentin for pain.

My question is about  natural remedies for shoulder issues like massage or chiropractic care. When we lifted him the other night it was almost like something went back in place because yesterday he was great all day. 

Its so frustrating that we can't get anything definitive from xrays or vet exams and its so random. He will yelp w true pain, but hasn't expressed much with this issue.

Has anyone experienced anything similar or have other suggestions or resources - maybe doing targeted massage? 

Thanks so much!

Intermittent limping, right leg/shoulder. In and out of vet since January -Natural remedies?