Dogs can’t put it into words when they’re in pain and having trouble walking, but it’s obvious there’s a problem. He might try to take that long walk, but lays down and doesn’t want to go any further. She might be finding it difficult to walk upstairs. Sometimes dogs whine or cry when they’re trying to get up or move around. Orthopedic Pet Surgeries might be the answer, allowing the dog to move without pain and enjoy life once again.
Torn Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL)
One of the most common reasons for orthopedic surgery on a dog is a torn cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). The CCL is similar to the ACL in humans. The back of the bone above the knee (the femur) is connected to the bone below the knee (the tibia) with the cranial cruciate ligament. The CCL stabilizes the knee joint, allowing the dog to move easily. When a dog starts limping and is having a problem with one of the hind legs, the CCL may have been ruptured or torn.
Causes of a CCL Injury in a Dog
There are many possible reasons that a dog could have a torn CCL.
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Some large breeds are more likely to develop a CCL injury, such as German Shepherds, Newfoundlands and Labrador and Golden Retrievers.
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As is true with people, being overweight puts more stress on a dog’s joints.
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A dog who is normally sedentary but has occasional days of hard exercise is also at risk for CCL injuries.
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If a dog has a ruptured CCL on one leg, there is a 50% chance that the opposite leg will also develop a problem.
Treating an Injured CCL
A partially torn CCL may improve or heal without treatment, especially on a small dog. However, when the CCL is not allowing the joint to function smoothly, the bones will rub together. This can result in degenerative changes, such as arthritis, bone spurs and a lessened range of motion, especially in larger dogs. A veterinarian may recommend orthopedic surgery in order to prevent further damage, especially in larger dogs.
Animal Medical Center, located in Hattiesburg, MS, has been performing Orthopedic Pet Surgeries for over 30 years. They focus on using advanced surgical techniques and technologies to provide the highest quality of care. Visit Animal-er.com to learn more and to schedule an appointment. To see their business reviews visit Yelp page.