Carina has been taking Synovi MSM in granules form for about two years, and I also give her organic flax seed oil to lubricate her joints. She's doing quite well with that combination, considering she has arthritis and will be 12 tomorrow. Whether or not Maggie will have to take the Synovi for the rest of her life is something you should ask the vet.
Best wishes for Maggie's quick recovery.