Canine Orthopedic and Neurological Conditions

Canine Rehabilitation in Maryland

Iliopsoas Strain

Iliopsoas muscle tears are a relatively common yet infrequently diagnosed injury in dogs. Iliopsoas strain (tear) results from excessive stretching of this muscle and occurs commonly at or near the muscle-tendon junction, the weak link.

A dog with an iliopsoas strain might look as if he has a slight limp or might hesitate to bear weight on a leg while running or trotting and instead seem to “skip”. He also might sit with his legs misaligned or tuck his tail under more often. This condition might have been caused due to slipping, jumping off of a high surface, roughhousing, or excessive play/training.

Osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is the most common form of arthritis in dogs and is characterized by a loss of cartilage that covers and protects the ends of bones and joints throughout the body, most often the hip, stifle, and elbow.

A dog with osteoarthritis may be reluctant to exercise, stiff, unable to jump, and may display a change in gait that resembles hopping.

Cranial Cruciate Ligament Repair (TPLO, TTA, TightRope, Extracapsular Stabilization)

The dog CCL is similar to a human’s ACL and is a tough band of tissue that connects the main bones of the knee joint. The CCL may rupture due to excessive force or years of normal wear and tear on the joint. Most dogs with this injury cannot walk normally and are in pain. This condition can also lead to osteoarthritis.

A dog in need of CCL treatment surgery can benefit from post-operative rehabilitation offered by Hands on Horses, which may help decrease pain and speed healing.

Patellar Luxation (Medial and Lateral)

Also known as a kneecap dislocation, patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap is dislocated from its normal position and is one of the more prevalant knee joint conditions in dogs. This condition is commonly seen in toy and miniature dog breeds such as Pomeranians and Boston Terriers.

A dog with a dislocated kneecap will typically exhibit occasional limping, an intermittent skip in gait, and/or a sudden loss of support on the limb.

Meniscal Injury

Menisci are cartilage pads that support a dog’s knee joints and menisci damage is often seen in conjunction with a CCL rupture due to instability of the joint.

A dog with a meniscal injury often displays more pain than a CCL injury alone.