Panosteitis, also known as "wandering lameness" or "growing pains", is a spontaneously occurring lameness that usually affects large dogs.  This disease usually occurs in dogs between the ages of 5 to 14 months, and affects males more often than females.  In most cases the lameness occurs suddenly, without a history of trauma.  Most often one or the other front leg is affected first, then without warning the symptoms will shift from leg to leg.  Symptoms may appear to improve and then worsen in a nearly cyclic manner.  Between spontaneous improvement and relocation "wandering" of discomfort areas, diagnosis can be difficult.  X-rays may reveal that the bones have a greater density than is normally found.
        In most cases, the pain subsides within one to two months, although it can "recycle" for up to one year.  Panosteitis will eventually end its cycle and go away, with or without treatment.  Pain relievers may be necessary to help make the dog more comfortable.