CRUCIATE INJURIES
Any footy fan will have heard of cruciate injuries. The cruciates are 2 ligaments supporting the knee joint and just like in humans, a dog's cruciate ligaments can be damaged.
This might be a strain or small tear all the way to a complete rupture.
Very active, older, overweight or dogs with patella luxation are more at risk of developing a cruciate disease or rupturing a ligament.
How do you know if your dog has a cruciate injury?
If you have noticed hind limb lameness in your dog he will need to see a vet. With a small tear to the ligament sometimes the lameness will resolve once the initial swelling goes down but arthritis will begin to occur within a short period of time.
Your vet will perform orthopaedic tests and imaging may be required to diagnose your dog's knee injury. They may prescribe anti-inflammatories and pain relief and surgery may be recommended. The degree of arthritis will affect his prognosis.
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How massage therapy help canine cruciate injuries
Any condition or injury which causes hind limb lameness in dogs will result in tight ropey bands in the muscles used to lift the leg during limping and throughout the rest of the body due to adaptive changes in their posture and gait.
Massage can help to reduce undue tension and relieve pain in these muscles. Massage treatments are also beneficial in supporting arthritic care and suitable for pre- and post-surgery. Consult with your vet to discuss beginning massage treatments or laser therapy to complement your buddy's cruciate injury recovery.