How to Care for Patellar Luxation in Dogs366

Patellar luxation is a common condition in dogs, especially small breeds. It occurs when the kneecap (patella) slips out of place, causing pain and lameness. While patellar luxation can be a serious condition, it can be managed with proper care and treatment.

Symptoms of Patellar Luxation

The most common symptom of patellar luxation is lameness. Dogs may limp on the affected leg or hold it up completely. Other symptoms include:*
Swollen knee
Pain when bending or extending the knee
Clicking or popping sound when the knee moves
Reluctance to jump or run

Patellar luxation can be graded on a scale of 1 to 4, depending on the severity of the condition. Grade 1 luxations are the least severe, and the kneecap only slips out of place occasionally. Grade 4 luxations are the most severe, and the kneecap is permanently dislocated.

Causes of Patellar Luxation

Patellar luxation is caused by a combination of factors, including:*
Genetics
Trauma
Obesity
Weak muscles

Certain breeds of dogs are more prone to patellar luxation, including toy and small breeds such as Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers. Trauma, such as a fall or a blow to the knee, can also cause patellar luxation. Obesity can put extra stress on the knee joint, increasing the risk of luxation. Weak muscles around the knee can also contribute to the condition.

Treatment for Patellar Luxation

The treatment for patellar luxation depends on the severity of the condition. Grade 1 luxations may only require conservative treatment, such as weight loss, exercise, and physical therapy. Grade 2 and 3 luxations may require surgery to reposition the kneecap and stabilize the joint. Grade 4 luxations are usually treated with surgery, but the outcome may not be as successful as with lower grades of luxation.

Conservative Treatment

Conservative treatment for patellar luxation includes:*
Weight loss
Exercise
Physical therapy
Medication

Weight loss can help to reduce the stress on the knee joint. Exercise can help to strengthen the muscles around the knee and improve joint stability. Physical therapy can help to improve range of motion and flexibility in the knee joint. Medication may be prescribed to relieve pain and inflammation.

Surgical Treatment

Surgical treatment for patellar luxation involves repositioning the kneecap and stabilizing the joint. There are a variety of surgical techniques that can be used, and the best approach will depend on the individual dog. Surgery is typically successful in resolving the lameness and pain associated with patellar luxation.

Recovery from Patellar Luxation Surgery

Recovery from patellar luxation surgery typically takes 6 to 8 weeks. During this time, the dog will need to be restricted from activity and will need to wear a bandage or splint to protect the surgical site. Physical therapy will be necessary to help the dog regain range of motion and strength in the knee joint. Most dogs will make a full recovery from patellar luxation surgery, but some dogs may experience ongoing lameness or instability.

Preventing Patellar Luxation

There is no surefire way to prevent patellar luxation, but there are some things that can be done to reduce the risk, including:
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Maintaining a healthy weight
Providing regular exercise
Avoiding injuries
Breeding dogs with good knee conformation

Patellar luxation can be a serious condition, but it can be managed with proper care and treatment. By following the advice of your veterinarian, you can help your dog live a happy and active life.

2024-10-29

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