Canine Luxating Patella: Recognizing Symptoms, Understanding Causes, and Offering Assistance
Luxating patella, a condition where a dog's kneecap dislocates, is a common orthopaedic issue that affects many canine companions. This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the condition, its causes, treatments, and prevention methods.
In most cases, the patella pops out to the middle of the leg, a condition known as medial patella luxation (MPL). However, in larger breeds, the patella may pop to the outside of the leg, a condition referred to as lateral patella luxation (LPL).
The treatment for luxating patella often involves surgery, which is usually performed by specialist orthopedic vets at referral practices. Neutered dogs are more likely to develop this condition, possibly due to delayed growth plate closure in dogs neutered before puberty. Exercise during the growth period and early life experiences, such as neutering and exercise, may also contribute to the development of luxating patella.
A poor diet and nutritional imbalance can contribute to abnormal bone growth and patella weakness, making the dog more susceptible to luxating patella. A dog with this condition will often experience pain or instability as the patella sometimes pops out of its groove.
For mild cases, conservative treatments such as weight management, joint supplements, controlled activity, physical therapy, and animal chiropractic care may be effective. These approaches aim to reduce stress on the joints, support cartilage health, limit further injury, build muscle, improve joint motion, and reduce pain.
However, for more severe cases (Grade 3 and 4 luxations), or when conservative methods are ineffective, surgery may be necessary. Common surgical procedures include trochleoplasty, tibial tuberosity transposition (TTT), and soft tissue balancing. Post-surgery, rehabilitation is crucial for recovery, involving rest, restricted activity, and physical therapy sessions to maintain muscle mass and range of motion.
It is essential to note that the success of luxating patella surgery depends on various factors, including the grade of the luxation, the dog's symptoms, and the results of x-rays. Obesity is likely to play a part in the development of luxating patella, and females are more likely to get the condition than males.
Untreated, luxating patella can cause early-onset arthritis, which can compromise a dog's welfare. Symptoms of luxating patella may include stiffness, reluctance to use stairs, or licking the knee joints. Dogs with luxating patella will often hop on the problematic leg, then walk normally again after the patella pops back in.
Luxating patella is a genetic condition more common in certain breeds like Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire terriers. It is crucial to be aware of this condition to ensure early diagnosis and treatment, improving the quality of life for our canine friends.
- Breeds such as Pomeranians, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire terriers are more susceptible to luxating patella due to genetic factors.
- A poor diet and nutritional imbalance can lead to abnormal bone growth, making dogs more vulnerable to luxating patella and patella weakness.
- In the early life of a dog, factors such as neutering and exercise might contribute to the development of luxating patella.
- For severe cases of luxating patella (Grade 3 and 4 luxations), or when conservative methods are ineffective, veterinary surgery may be necessary, with procedures like trochleoplasty, tibial tuberosity transposition (TTT), and soft tissue balancing.
- Untreated luxating patella can lead to early-onset arthritis, potentially compromising a dog's health and well-being.
- It is crucial for the mental health and overall health of pets to provide appropriate care, such as maintaining a balanced diet, monitoring weight, and addressing any concerns related to orthopaedic issues promptly with the help of veterinary professionals.
