Is Your Dog Limping? Notice Them Sitting Sideways? Or Are Their Hind Legs Stiff When They Get Up? It Might Be Time to Check for a Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injury or Tear.
What Causes Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries or Tears?
A dog’s cruciate ligament, similar to a human's, is known as the Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) or Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL). Essentially, it connects the thigh bone (femur) to the shin bone (tibia), controlling the range of motion of the knee. When the cruciate ligament is injured or torn, the connection between these two bones is lost, causing the shin bone to shift forward, resulting in misalignment. Unlike humans, who often suffer ACL tears due to external forces or injuries, dogs typically develop CCL injuries from long-term use. Hence, dogs that are very active and love running and jumping are more prone to these injuries, often showing symptoms before middle age.
How Common Are Anterior Cruciate Ligament Injuries?
Anterior Cruciate Ligament injuries are quite common. Dogs of any size can suffer from these injuries, especially active dogs. Certain breeds, such as Saint Bernards, Rottweilers, Labradors, Akitas, American Staffordshire Terriers, Mastiffs, and Newfoundlands, have a genetic predisposition making them more susceptible to CCL tears. Initial damage may be a partial tear, presenting as a limp, especially noticeable when the dog gets up after lying down. This limp may improve after some stretching or activity, making it easy for owners to overlook. However, a complete tear means the dog can no longer put weight on the affected leg, particularly the lower part, with the leg only held together by muscle tissue.
Whether a dog's anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury can heal on its own depends on the severity of the injury and the overall health of the dog. Minor sprains or partial tears may improve with rest and non-surgical treatments, but a complete tear usually requires surgical repair. Using braces is an important means to help the dog recover. Here are some suggestions for using braces:
Self-healing of Dog ACL Injuries
Minor Injuries:
- Rest: Limit the dog's activity and avoid strenuous exercise and jumping.
- Cold Compress: In the early stages of the injury, use a cold compress to reduce swelling and pain.
- Anti-inflammatory Medication: Use anti-inflammatory medications under the guidance of a veterinarian to reduce pain and inflammation.
Moderate to Severe Injuries:
- Non-surgical Treatment: Partial tears can be treated with rest, medication, and the use of braces.
- Surgical Treatment: For a complete ACL tear, surgery is usually the best solution. Post-surgery requires a strict rehabilitation plan.
Using Braces
Braces can provide support and stability during non-surgical treatment and postoperative recovery, helping the dog to recover. Here are some suggestions for using braces:
Choosing the Right Braces:
- Knee Support Braces: Specifically designed for ACL injuries, providing knee support and stability.
- Full-body Support Braces: Suitable for dogs needing comprehensive support, especially large dogs.
Wearing Braces:
- Proper Fit: Ensure the brace is correctly positioned and snug against the dog's knee, but not too tight to affect circulation.
- Adaptation Time: Allow the dog to gradually adapt to the brace, starting with short periods and gradually extending the time.
Monitoring and Adjusting:
- Regular Checks: Regularly check the brace for wear and the dog's skin condition to ensure there is no friction or pressure points.
- Adjust Fit: Adjust the tightness and wearing time of the brace according to the dog's recovery condition.
Combining Other Treatment Methods:
- Physical Therapy: Conduct appropriate physical therapy under the guidance of a veterinarian to help the dog enhance muscle strength and recover mobility.
- Nutritional Support: Provide high-quality nutrition to support the dog's overall health and recovery.
0 Comments