How to treat patella in dogs? - briefly
Treating patellar luxation in dogs typically involves a combination of medical management and surgery. Medication can help alleviate pain and inflammation, while surgery aims to realign the patella and stabilize the joint.
How to treat patella in dogs? - in detail
Treating luxating patella, or "trick knee," in dogs involves a combination of medical management, rehabilitation, and sometimes surgery. The patella is the small bone located at the front of the stifle (knee) joint. In some breeds, particularly smaller ones like Poodles, Yorkshire Terriers, and Chihuahuas, the patella can dislocate or slip out of place due to congenital laxity in the ligaments that hold it in position. Here's a detailed approach to managing this condition:
Medical Management:
- Pain Management: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help reduce pain and inflammation. Your veterinarian will prescribe these after assessing your dog's overall health.
- Weight Control: Obesity exacerbates the condition by putting more stress on the joints. A balanced diet and regular exercise can help maintain a healthy weight.
- Supplements: Glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids supplements can support joint health and reduce inflammation. Consult your vet before starting any new supplement regimen.
Rehabilitation:
- Physical Therapy Exercises: Low-impact exercises like swimming, walking on a leash, or using an underwater treadmill can help strengthen the quadriceps muscle and stabilize the patella without putting excessive strain on the joints.
- Passive Range of Motion (PROM) Exercises: Gentle manipulation of the leg to move the patella through its full range of motion can prevent scar tissue from forming and maintain joint flexibility.
- Stretching and Massage: Regular stretching exercises and massage can help improve muscle tone and flexibility around the knee joint.
Surgical Intervention (if necessary):
- Medial Imbrication: This procedure involves tightening the medial patellar ligament to prevent the patella from slipping out of place. It's often used for mild cases of luxating patella.
- Tibial Tuberosity Transposition (TTT): For more severe cases, this surgery realigns the tendon that attaches the patella to the tibia, effectively changing the angle at which the patella rests and reducing the likelihood of dislocation.
- Arthroscopic Surgery: In some cases, a minimally invasive arthroscopic procedure can be used to repair or tighten the ligaments around the patella.
Post-Operative Care:
- Restricted Activity: After surgery, it's crucial to restrict your dog's activity for several weeks to allow proper healing and prevent complications.
- Physical Therapy: Gradual reintroduction of physical therapy exercises can help maintain muscle tone and promote recovery.
- Regular Check-ups: Regular follow-up appointments with your veterinarian are essential to monitor your dog's progress and make any necessary adjustments to the treatment plan.
In conclusion, treating luxating patella in dogs requires a multifaceted approach that may include medical management, rehabilitation, and sometimes surgery. Close collaboration with your veterinarian is key to ensuring the best possible outcome for your pet.