Learn & Go With Dr. Laurie
Using PEMF Therapy for Dog Arthritis Relief: How It Works and Why It Helps
Today I am excited to dive into PEMF therapy. PEMF stands for Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy. This is a non-invasive treatment that can help dogs and cats find relief from arthritis pain and inflammation.
What is PEMF Therapy?
PEMF therapy uses electromagnetic energy waves to create an electromagnetic field around a targeted area of tissue. These devices come in different forms such as loops, beds, and hand held wands, each designed to provide treatment directly to joints and muscles.
Popular devices include the Assisi Loop, RecoveryRx loops, and PermaFlux unit. If you need a larger treatment area, Respond Systems and Assisi from Zomedica have beds that allow the entire pet to lie on the bed for a whole-body session.
For pinpoint targeting, a handheld wand like PermaFlux allows you to focus directly on a specific area.
Benefits of PEMF for Arthritis
PEMF therapy offers several benefits for pets with arthritis, including:
Increased Blood Flow
By enhancing circulation, PEMF speeds up healing and promotes better recovery.
Reduced Pain
Studies, including human trials, show that PEMF can reduce reliance on pain medications by directly relieving discomfort.
Cartilage Support
PEMF therapy has been shown to activate cartilage cells, helping them produce more cartilage over time.
When treating a joint, such as a knee, you can place the loop around the knee, ensuring the
electromagnetic field targets the inflamed tissue. Over time, using PEMF 2-4 times a day for several weeks can yield significant improvement, promoting joint health and comfort.
Why Choose PEMF Therapy?
PEMF therapy is a gentle yet powerful tool for managing arthritis and other conditions in pets.
Though it requires consistent use, the results can be long-lasting, with reduced inflammation, faster healing, and overall increased mobility for your furry friend.
If your dog or cat struggles with arthritis, talk to your vet about PEMF therapy.
I’m Dr. Laurie McCauley from Optimum Pet Vitality – thanks for tuning in, and here’s to helping your pets feel their best!
Learn & Go w Dr. Laurie: Recognizing arthritis
Does Your Dog Have Arthritis? Recognizing the Signs and What You Can Do
Hi, I’m Dr. Laurie McCauley from Optimum Pet Vitality, and today, I want to help you understand how to spot arthritis in dogs. Arthritis is a common condition affecting many dogs, especially as they age, but it’s not always easy to recognize. Knowing the signs and symptoms can lead to quicker diagnosis and better management, keeping your pet healthier and more comfortable for years to come.
What is Arthritis in Dogs?
Arthritis, or joint inflammation, occurs when the cartilage in the joints wears down. In a healthy knee joint, for example, cartilage is smooth and allows easy movement and glide of the bones. But in an arthritic joint, cartilage gets worn away, and inflammation can lead to stiffness, discomfort, and pain. These changes can impact mobility and even the quality of life of your pet.
Recognizing the Signs of Arthritis
Your dog might not be able to tell you they’re in pain, but there are visible signs to look for:
Hesitation on Stairs: Dogs with arthritis might hesitate or struggle to go up and down stairs, often stepping up one leg at a time.
Reluctance to Jump: You may notice hesitation before jumping onto the couch, bed, or car.
Slower Movement: Dogs with arthritis often slow down; instead of running, they may prefer to walk or trot.
Stiffness or Decreased Activity: Reduced enthusiasm for physical activities or difficulty getting up after resting could signal arthritis.
If you notice any of these behaviors, consult your veterinarian. They can examine the joints, check for
inflammation or pain, and might even recommend x-rays for a clear diagnosis.
Helping Dogs with Arthritis
With a confirmed diagnosis, there are several ways to help your dog feel more comfortable. Consistent, gentle exercise is one of the best ways to support joint health. By maintaining mobility and strengthening the surrounding muscles, you can improve your dog’s health span, helping them live longer , happier, and healthier.
Remember, keeping an eye on subtle changes in your dog’s behavior can make a huge difference in managing arthritis and promoting a long, active life.
Learn & Go w Dr. Laurie Laser Therapy for Your Dog: What You Need to Know
Laser therapy is becoming an increasingly popular method to improve your dog's health, whether at home or in a veterinary clinic. But how do you pick the right laser, and are cheaper options just as good as high-end systems? Here’s what you need to know.
What is Cold Laser Therapy?
Cold laser therapy uses low-level lasers to promote healing, reduce inflammation, and manage pain without generating heat. It works by delivering light at specific wavelengths, which penetrate the tissue and stimulate cellular regeneration. This therapy can be particularly effective in managing arthritis, healing injuries, and even reducing inflammation in the ears or mouth.
Laser vs. LED: The Key Differences
Many devices marketed as "lasers" online are often LED-based rather than true lasers. While LEDs emit light, they don't have the same focused energy as a laser, which can limit their effectiveness. True lasers have a single wavelength and deliver coherent, collimated light, allowing them to penetrate deeper into the tissue. This is especially important for conditions that require deeper tissue healing, like joint issues or muscle injuries.
Choosing the Right Laser: Avoid the Cheap Options
When looking for a laser, be wary of cheaper options. Many of these devices will advertise a high combined power output, but this can be misleading. For example, a company might claim their laser has 800mW of power, but in reality, that could mean several smaller diodes and a mix of LEDs, which offer far less therapeutic benefit. What you want is a laser with a powerful individual diode (500mW or higher), which ensures deep tissue penetration and quicker treatment times.
Another issue with low-cost lasers is their battery life and diode quality. These lasers often suffer from short battery life, causing the device to underperform as the treatment session progresses. Some cheaper lasers might only maintain full power for the first few seconds, reducing their effectiveness significantly. Additionally, low-quality diodes wear out quickly, sometimes requiring replacement within just a year.
Lastly, if a laser doesn’t require safety glasses and operates below a Class 3b rating, it’s likely not powerful enough for conditions like osteoarthritis or pain management, which require higher dosing to be effective.
Conclusion
Investing in a quality laser for your dog’s therapy can significantly improve treatment outcomes and reduce long-term costs. By focusing on diodes, power, and reliable dosing transparency, you’ll ensure that your pup receives the care they deserve. For recommendations, check out vetted lasers like Spectravet or Respond, which are known for their reliability and therapeutic benefits. Always consult with your veterinarian before starting laser therapy to ensure you choose the best option for your dog's needs.
Learn & Go w Dr. Laurie Iliopsoas Part 3 - For Pet Parents
Welcome to Iliopsoas Part 3, the final entry in our iliopsoas series of "Learn & Go with Dr. Laurie"! Today, we're focusing on a practical technique you can use at home to check your dog's hip extension. This simple method can help you identify if your dog might have any issues with their hips or iliopsoas muscle.
Hip Extension Evaluation “How To”
Setup and Positioning -
Equipment Needed: Depending on the size of your dog, a stable stool or chair that allows the dog's front feet …{Read More- link to website} to be comfortably elevated at a height at least as high as their back if possible.
Starting Position: Position your dog, like my trusty companion Syd, with their rear feet firmly on the ground and their front feet placed on the raised surface. If you haven’t checked out the video above, check it out here for a great visual.
Encouraging the Correct Posture: Gently encourage your dog to maintain this position. The goal is for their rear legs to stay extended and their front legs to be elevated, with their back straight.
What you see and what it means:
Hip Extension Angle: Watch how well your dog can extend their hips. A healthy dog should be able to extend their hips fully, allowing for a smooth, straight alignment of their back legs.
Compensatory Movements: If your dog has to step one leg forward or can’t keep their back straight, it might indicate a problem. Specifically, look for:
Forward Stepping of One Leg: This might suggest an issue with hip or iliopsoas muscle flexibility or strength.
Back Alignment: Your dog should be able to keep their back straight and look up without discomfort. If they can't, it could indicate an underlying issue.
Identifying Potential Problems:
Iliopsoas Muscle Issues: Difficulty in maintaining this position or needing to adjust could suggest tightness or strain in the iliopsoas muscle.
Hip Joint Problems: Extending the hip can be particularly uncomfortable for dogs with hip issues like dysplasia or arthritis as well as if they have an iliopsoas injury. If your dog shows signs of pain or reluctance to extend the hip fully, it’s important to get this checked by your vet.
Next Steps:
Palpation and Pain Response: If you notice any issues, gently feel around your dog’s hips and back for any signs of pain or discomfort.
Veterinary Consultation: If your dog struggles with this position or shows signs of discomfort, it’s a good idea to have your vet take a closer look. They can provide a thorough evaluation and suggest appropriate treatments or exercises.
Conclusion
Checking your dog’s hip extension using this method is a quick and easy way to spot potential issues early. Early identification allows for better management and treatment to keep your furry friend healthy and happy.
Thank you for your commitment to your pet’s well-being. If you have any questions or need further guidance, feel free to reach out.
Warm regards,
Dr. Laurie McCauley
& The OPV Team
P.S. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for more helpful tips and updates on pet care!
Learn & Go w Dr. Laurie Iliopsoas Part 3 - For Medical Professionals
Welcome to Iliopsoas Part 3, the final entry in our iliopsoas series of "Learn & Go with Dr. Laurie"! Today, we will focus on assessing hip extension in dogs using a practical, straightforward method that can help identify potential iliopsoas or hip joint issues. This method involves evaluating the dog's hip extension angle with their rear feet on the ground and their front feet elevated on a stool or chair. Did you miss Part 1 or Part 2, no worries you can catch them here.
Hip Extension Evaluation Technique
This is a quick and easy technique that you can use at your office or teach your clients to do at home.
Setup and Positioning:
Equipment Needed: Depending on the size of the dog, a stable stool or chair that allows the dog's front feet …{Read More- link to website} to be comfortably elevated.
Starting Position: Position the dog, in this case, my trusted companion Syd, with their rear feet firmly on the ground and their front feet placed on the raised surface. This surface should be at least wither height. The higher it is, the more challenging it is so start lower and increase the height only if this is easy (able to hold it for 1-3 minutes) and not difficult or uncomfortable (wanting to jump off or dancing around).
Encouraging the Correct Posture: Gently encourage the dog to maintain this position. The aim is to ensure that the dog's rear legs remain extended and the front legs are elevated, with the thoracolumbar spine in a straight line or even in a concave line indicating full thoracolumbar extension. The higher the elevated surface, the more hip extension and iliopsoas stretch you will be able to obtain.
Observations and Indicators:
Hip Extension Angle: Observe the extension angle of the hips. A healthy dog should be able to extend their hips fully, allowing for a smooth, straight alignment of the hindquarters.
Compensatory Movements: If the dog has to step one leg forward or exhibits an inability to maintain the correct posture, it may indicate a problem. Specifically, watch for:
·Forward Stepping of One Leg: This may suggest an asymmetry in hip or iliopsoas flexibility or strength.
Thoracolumbar Spine Alignment: The dog should be able to extend their thoracolumbar spine fully, looking straight up without signs of discomfort or strain. Inability to do so can indicate underlying issues.
Identifying Potential Problems:
Iliopsoas Muscle Issues: Difficulty maintaining this position or compensatory movements may suggest iliopsoas strain or tightness. This muscle, critical for hip flexion, can restrict movement when injured or strained.
Hip Joint Pathology: Extending the hip can be particularly uncomfortable for dogs with hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis. If the dog shows signs of pain or reluctance to extend the hip fully, a deeper evaluation of the hip joint is warranted.
Diagnostic Follow-Up:
Palpation and Pain Response: Combine this observational technique with palpation of the iliopsoas muscle and the hip joint to pinpoint the source of discomfort.
Further Testing: If the dog exhibits significant difficulty or discomfort, consider additional diagnostic imaging (e.g., radiographs or ultrasound) to assess for hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, or iliopsoas injuries.
Conclusion
Evaluating hip extension using this method provides a quick and effective way to identify potential issues in the iliopsoas muscle and hip joint. Accurate assessment allows for early intervention and tailored treatment plans to improve patient outcomes. We hope you have enjoyed this iliopsoas series.
Thank you for your dedication to advancing veterinary care. Should you have any questions or wish to discuss this topic further, please don't hesitate to reach out.
Warm regards,
Dr. Laurie McCauley
& The Optimum Pet Vitality Team
Empowering Veterinary Professionals, Optimizing Pet Health
P.S. Remember to follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for more professional insights and updates on veterinary medicine!
Learn & Go w Dr. Laurie Iliopsoas Part 2 - For Medical Professionals
Welcome to Iliopsoas Part 2, our latest edition of "Learn & Go with Dr. Laurie"! Today, we will delve further into the iliopsoas muscle—a key player in canine locomotion and a frequent source of musculoskeletal issues. This vlog will focus on its anatomy, palpation techniques, and effective stretching methods. You can see Iliopsoas Part 1 here.
Anatomy of the Iliopsoas Muscle
The iliopsoas muscle is composed of two distinct muscles: the iliacus and the psoas major. These muscles originate from the ventral aspect of the lumbar vertebrae and the pelvis, converging to insert on the lesser trochanter of the femur. This deep-seated muscle group is critical for hip flexion and stabilizing the lumbar spine.
Palpation Techniques
Effective palpation of the iliopsoas muscle requires a thorough understanding of its anatomical landmarks:
Positioning the Dog: Have the dog lie in lateral recumbency. Ensure the dog is calm and relaxed to allow for effective palpation. Make sure the hip and lumbar spine are at least moderately flexed.
Locating the Muscle: Begin by palpating the ventral aspect of the lumbar spine and the iliopsoas’ origin. Follow the side muscles (longissimus and iliocostalis) ventrally pushing the intestines, with gravity, toward the floor. Having a hand on the dorsal spinous processes and knowing that the iliopsoas is just lateral to this, allows you to find where this pencil-like muscle is hiding. Firm but gentle pressure is necessary to feel the muscle belly. Once you find it, you can follow it distally towards its insertion on the lesser trochanter of the femur.
Stretching and Shortening: To facilitate palpation, slowly and gently extend and flex the hip joint. Hip extension will stretch the iliopsoas, making it easier to distinguish from surrounding tissues. Conversely, hip flexion will shorten the muscle making it softer. Palpate along the length of the muscle, noting any areas of tension, swelling, or discomfort.
Identifying Pain Points: Any signs of pain or resistance may indicate strain or injury.
Stretching the Iliopsoas Muscle
Stretching is crucial for maintaining muscle flexibility and preventing injury. Here's how to properly stretch the iliopsoas muscle:
Hip Extension Stretch: With the dog in a standing position, gently extend the hind leg backwards. This action elongates the iliopsoas muscle. Then gently and slowly internally rotate and or abduct the limb. This provides a thorough muscle stretch. Hold the stretch for 15-20 seconds before releasing.
Stabilizing the Pelvis: Stabilize the pelvis by holding the tuber ischii. This ensures that the stretch targets the iliopsoas effectively without causing undue movement in the lumbosacral or sacroiliac joints.
Assessment: Observe the dog's reaction to the stretch. If there is significant resistance or discomfort, it may indicate an underlying issue that requires further investigation.
Differential Diagnosis
When extending the hip, if the dog exhibits pain, it is essential to differentiate between iliopsoas strain and other potential sources of discomfort, such as:
Hip Joint Pathology: Pain originating from hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis.
Lumbosacral Disease: Discomfort due to lumbosacral stenosis or spondylosis.
Sacroiliac Joint Dysfunction: Pain related to sacroiliac joint instability or inflammation.
If the exact source of pain is unclear, radiographs may show changes in the lesser trochanter. If you are still not sure, refer the patient to a surgeon or rehabilitation specialist who may perform advanced imaging if necessary to identify the issue.
Conclusion
Understanding the iliopsoas muscle's anatomy and mastering palpation and stretching techniques are vital for diagnosing and treating related issues. In our next session, we will explore advanced therapeutic approaches and rehabilitation exercises tailored for iliopsoas muscle injuries.
Thank you for your commitment to veterinary excellence. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or for further discussion on this topic.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Laurie McCauley, DVM, DACVSMR, CVC, CVA, CCRT
Optimum Pet Vitality
Empowering People, Optimizing Pets
P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for more valuable content and updates!
Learn & Go w Dr. Laurie Iliopsoas Part 2 - For Pet Parents
Welcome to another edition of "Learn & Go with Dr. Laurie"! Today, we're taking the next step in focusing on an important muscle in your dog’s body – the iliopsoas muscle. If you missed it, you can see Iliopsoas Part 1 here. This muscle plays a crucial role in your dog's movement and can sometimes be a source of discomfort if not properly cared for. Let's dive in!
What is the Iliopsoas Muscle?
The iliopsoas muscle is actually a combination of two muscles: the iliacus and the psoas major. Together, they run from your dog’s lower back and pelvis and attach to the upper part of the femur (the thigh bone). The iliopsoas is nestled within your dog's abdomen and pelvis, and is essential for flexing the hip joint, which helps your dog lift their hind leg.
Why is the Iliopsoas Muscle Important?
The iliopsoas muscle helps your dog with activities like walking, running, and jumping. It also stabilizes the lower back and aids in smooth, coordinated movements. If this muscle becomes tight or strained, your dog might show signs of discomfort, lameness, or difficulty with these activities. Sometimes the signs are so mild, you only see them when your dog is doing something more strenuous, like jumping over an agility jump. If your dog has pain in the iliopsoas, the only sign might be dropped bars, with no reluctance to run and no obvious lameness, yet they are still painful.
How to Stretch the Iliopsoas Muscle
Stretching the iliopsoas muscle can help keep it flexible and reduce the risk of injury. Here’s a simple guide to stretching this important muscle in your dog:
Prepare Your Dog: Ensure your dog is calm and relaxed. It’s best to do this after a walk or play session when their muscles are warm.
Positioning: Have your dog lie on their side. Have them be comfortable and relaxed. This is the “filet mignon” muscle of the dog, tender and sensitive.
Hip Extension Stretch: Gently extend your dog’s hind leg backwards, away from the body. This movement stretches the iliopsoas muscle and extends the hip. Hold the stretch for about 10-20 seconds, then slowly release. Repeat 2-5 times.
Stabilize: To get the most effective stretch, stabilize the pelvis by gently holding the tuber ischii (the bony part of the pelvis) to prevent unwanted movement in the lumbosacral or sacroiliac joints.
Identifying Pain
Sometimes, the iliopsoas muscle can be a source of pain, which might show up as discomfort in the hip, lumbosacral joint, or sacroiliac joint. If you notice your dog showing signs of pain when you extend their hip, it’s important to have it checked out by your veterinarian. They can perform a more thorough examination and determine the exact cause of the discomfort. Sometimes x-rays are needed to rule out other causes such as arthritis.
When to See the Vet
If you’re unsure whether your dog is experiencing iliopsoas-related pain or if the stretching doesn’t seem to help, it’s always best to consult your vet. They can provide a professional assessment and suggest appropriate treatments or further exercises.
Conclusion
Understanding and caring for your dog’s iliopsoas muscle is essential for their overall mobility and comfort. Regular stretching can help keep this muscle flexible and reduce the risk of injury. Stay tuned for our next video, where we will cover more about how to keep your dog’s muscles healthy and strong.
Thank you for being dedicated to your pet’s health. As always, feel free to reach out with any questions or concerns.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Laurie McCauley, DVM, DACVSMR, CVC, CVA, CCRT
Optimum Pet Vitality
Empowering People, Optimizing Pets
P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for more valuable content and updates!
Learn & Go w Dr. Laurie Iliopsoas Part 1 - For Medical Professionals
Welcome! Happy to have you with us for this edition of "Learn & Go with Dr. Laurie." Today, we're focusing on a crucial yet frequently overlooked component of canine anatomy, the iliopsoas muscle. Understanding the location of the iliopsoas muscle, its function, and palpation techniques are essential for accurate diagnosis and effective treatment of related conditions.
Anatomy and Location
The iliopsoas muscle comprises two muscles: the iliacus and the psoas major. This muscle group originates from the ventral aspect of the lumbar vertebrae (L2-L4 for the psoas major and the sacropelvic surface of the ilium for the iliacus) and inserts on the lesser trochanter of the femur. Due to its deep location within the abdominal cavity, it plays a significant role in stabilizing the lumbar spine and flexing the hip joint.
Function
The primary function of the iliopsoas muscle is hip flexion. It is integral for activities that require the dog to lift its hind leg, such as walking, running, and jumping. Additionally, the iliopsoas muscle contributes to the lateral stability of the spine and aids in the coordination of complex movements, making it vital for agility and overall mobility.
Palpation Techniques
Palpating the iliopsoas muscle requires a nuanced understanding of its anatomical position and a gentle approach:
Positioning the Dog: Have the dog stand or lie in lateral recumbency. Ensure the dog is calm and relaxed to allow for effective palpation.
Locating the Muscle: Begin by palpating the ventral aspect of the lumbar spine and the iliopsoas’ origin. Follow the muscle ventrally and distally towards its insertion on the lesser trochanter of the femur.
Stretching and Shortening: To facilitate palpation, gently extend and flex the hip joint. Hip extension will stretch the iliopsoas, making it easier to distinguish from surrounding tissues. Conversely, hip flexion will shorten the muscle. Palpate along the length of the muscle, noting any areas of tension, swelling, or discomfort.
Direct Palpation: With the hip in a neutral position, apply gentle pressure along the ventral aspect of the lumbar vertebrae and the iliopsoas. Use your fingers to identify the muscle’s firmness and consistency. Any signs of pain or resistance may indicate strain or injury.
Clinical Significance
Understanding how to accurately palpate and assess the iliopsoas muscle is critical for diagnosing conditions such as iliopsoas strain or myopathy. Injuries to this muscle can result in significant lameness and discomfort, often presenting as hip or lower back pain. Early detection and appropriate intervention, including physical therapy, laser therapy, and targeted exercises, are essential for successful management.
Conclusion
Mastering the palpation of the iliopsoas muscle enhances your diagnostic capabilities and allows for more targeted and effective treatments. In our next video, we will delve into advanced diagnostic techniques and treatment protocols for iliopsoas injuries.
Thank you for your dedication to veterinary excellence. Stay tuned for more insights and practical tips in our upcoming editions of "Learn & Go with Dr. Laurie."
Warmest regards,
Dr. Laurie McCauley, DVM, DACVSMR, CVC, CVA, CCRT
Optimum Pet Vitality
Empowering People, Optimizing Pets
P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for more valuable content and updates!
Learn & Go w Dr. Laurie Iliopsoas Part 1 - For Pet Parents
Welcome! Happy to have you with us for this edition of "Learn & Go with Dr. Laurie." Today, we’re diving into a vital yet often overlooked muscle in your dog’s anatomy—the iliopsoas muscle. Understanding this muscle can help you better support your furry friend’s overall health and mobility.
What is the Iliopsoas Muscle?
The iliopsoas muscle is a powerful and essential muscle located deep within your dog’s body. It plays a crucial role in your dog's ability to move, especially in activities that involve jumping, running, and even simply walking. The iliopsoas muscle is actually a combination of two muscles: the iliacus and the psoas major. These muscles work together to flex the hip joint, allowing your dog to lift their leg and propel forward
Where is the Iliopsoas Muscle Located?
Anatomically, the iliopsoas muscle extends from the lower spine (lumbar region) and pelvis to the femur (thigh bone). Because it is located deep within the body, it is not visible externally, but it plays a critical role in your dog's locomotion.
Here is a simple diagram to help you visualize the location of the iliopsoas muscle:
Why is the Iliopsoas Muscle Important?
The iliopsoas muscle is fundamental for a variety of movements. When this muscle is healthy and functioning well, it enables your dog to enjoy an active lifestyle. However, if the iliopsoas muscle …{Read More- link to website}
becomes strained or injured, it can cause significant discomfort and mobility issues for your dog. Symptoms of an iliopsoas injury might include limping, difficulty rising from a lying position, reluctance to jump or climb stairs, and general stiffness. In agility dogs, dropped bars may be the only outward sign of iliopsoas pain.
Caring for the Iliopsoas Muscle
Preventing iliopsoas injuries involves ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight, engages in regular exercise, and warms up properly before intense activities. Regular stretching exercises can also be beneficial. If you suspect your dog has an iliopsoas injury, it’s essential to consult with a veterinarian who can provide appropriate treatment, which may include rest, physical rehabilitation, and in some cases, laser or shockwave therapy.
Conclusion
Understanding the iliopsoas muscle and its significance can empower you to help your dog lead a healthy and active life. By being aware of this vital muscle, you can take proactive steps to prevent injuries and support your dog’s mobility.
Thank you for joining us in this edition of "Learn & Go with Dr. Laurie". Stay tuned for more insights and tips to keep your pets healthy and happy. If you have any questions or need further information, don’t hesitate to reach out.
Warmest regards,
Dr. Laurie McCauley, DVM, DACVSMR, CVC, CVA, CCRT
Optimum Pet Vitality
Empowering People, Optimizing Pets
P.S. Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook and LinkedIn for more valuable content and updates!
Top tip for lasering lumbar back pain in your PET patients
Do you treat dogs that have lumbar back pain? Do you have a laser? Did you know you can treat the spinal cord, the afferent and efferent nerves as they come in and out of the spine as well as the muscles next to the spine? This makes a significant difference in the amount of pain reduction as well as reducing inflammation of, and around, the nerves. Overall, less or no pain and improved nerve function when it has been diminished.
In this Learn & Go with Dr. Laurie, we will show you the lumbar spine anatomy and how you can have optimum effects using your laser when treating your patients with lumbar back pain, nerve injury and muscle spasm. The secret is in the angle of the laser in respect to their back.
Watch this video to see Dr. Laurie demonstrating her favorite tip for lasering the lumbar spine.
Dr. Laurie has lots of secrets to maximizing laser effects. If you want to learn everything you need to know about laser therapy check out Optimum Laser Therapy. Learn how laser works in the body (using it in cancer, to treat inflammation, in sporting animals…), how to pick up any laser and treat 27 body areas (including kidneys and lungs - it is not just for joints), and even OSHA requirements (you may not be following all the rules and be open for fines). Get all the information to get Optimum Effects with your laser on every patient you treat.
Dr. Laurie is at it again, helping you with Awesome Tips and Tricks to help Optimize your pets and patients lives. It is her goal in life - Empowering People, Optimizing Pets.
An Overview of Rehabilitation Strategies for Acute Spinal Injuries
Overview of Rehabilitation Strategies for Acute Spinal Injuries
Acute spinal injuries are a frequent and often devastating occurrence in veterinary medicine, with causes ranging from intervertebral disc herniation to traumatic injuries and fibrocartilaginous embolism. These injuries can result in primary effects, such as neuronal destruction, hemorrhage, and ischemia, as well as secondary effects, including microvascular destruction, cytotoxicity, inflammation, and necrosis. The complex nature of spinal injuries necessitates a multifaceted approach to treatment and rehabilitation, with physiotherapy playing a central role in promoting recovery and improving outcomes for affected animals.
Primary and Secondary Effects of Spinal Injuries
Primary effects of spinal injuries are the direct consequences of trauma to the tissue, leading to immediate damage. Secondary effects, on the other hand, are a cascade of events that occur as a result of the primary injury. These events include microvascular destruction, cytotoxicity, free radical release, inflammation, and necrosis. Understanding these effects is crucial in developing targeted rehabilitation strategies to address the underlying pathophysiology of spinal injuries
Objectives of Physiotherapy in Acute Spinal Injuries
Physiotherapy aims to achieve several key objectives in the management of acute spinal injuries, including:
Reduction of edema, inflammation, and pain
Physiotherapy modalities such as cryotherapy, massage, and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can help reduce edema, inflammation, and pain in the affected area.
Prevention or reduction of muscle atrophy and contracture
Through a combination of passive and active exercises, physiotherapy can help maintain muscle tone and prevent muscle atrophy and contractures.
Recovery of nerve function:
Physiotherapy can facilitate neuroplasticity, the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections, to promote recovery of nerve function.
Neuroplasticity and Rehabilitation
Neuroplasticity plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of acute spinal injuries. It is the brain's ability to reorganize and form new neural connections in response to injury or disease. Specific neurotrophins, such as brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and neurotrophin 3 (NT-3), are endogenous promoters of neuroplasticity that stimulate cell survival and facilitate axonal growth. These neurotrophins are inhibited in spinal lesions, highlighting the importance of targeted rehabilitation strategies to promote neuroplasticity and recovery of nerve function.
Intervertebral Disc Herniation: Types and Rehabilitation
Intervertebral disc herniation is a common spinal condition that can lead to pain, ataxia, paralysis, and other neurological deficits. There are two main types of disc herniation: Hansen type 1, which involves extrusion of the nucleus pulposus, and Hansen type 2, which involves protrusion of the annulus fibrosus. Rehabilitation strategies for intervertebral disc herniation vary based on the type of herniation and may include conservative or surgical approaches.
Cervical Disc Herniation
Cervical disc herniation represents about 25% of clinical cases of disc herniation and may present with cervical pain and muscle fasciculations without neurological deficits. The decision between conservative or surgical treatment depends on the severity of neurological deficits. Studies have shown that a conservative approach can be effective in dogs with mild neurological deficits, with the use of non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids, and restricted activity. Surgical decompression is recommended in patients with severe neurological deficits or recurrent episodes of neck pain.
A retrospective study by Levine et al. in 2007 assessed the effectiveness of conservative therapy in dogs with suspected cervical disc herniation. The study found that 54.7% of dogs had complete recovery, 30.9% showed recurrence of clinical signs, and 14.4% had no positive effect from therapy. The administration of NSAIDs appeared to be associated with greater success and a better quality of life, while corticosteroids and the duration of restricted activity did not significantly affect the prognosis.
In cases where surgical decompression is necessary, post-operative physiotherapy plays a crucial role in promoting neurological recovery. A study by Jeong et al. in 2019 evaluated the effect of post-operative physiotherapy on dogs with cervical disc herniation treated surgically. The study found that dogs treated with a post-operative physiotherapy protocol had significantly better neurological recovery compared to dogs that did not receive post-operative physiotherapy.
Thoracolumbar Disc Herniation
Thoracolumbar disc herniation can lead to a variety of symptoms, including pain and neurological deficits ranging from mild proprioceptive ataxia to paraplegia. Rehabilitation strategies for thoracolumbar disc herniation focus on improving proprioception, coordination, and muscle strength. Studies have shown that a multimodal approach to rehabilitation, including manual therapy, passive and active exercises, modalities, and hydrotherapy, can have a synergistic effect on functional recovery.
Surgical decompression is often recommended in dogs with severe neurological deficits or recurrent episodes of pain. A study by Packer et al. in 2016 assessed the prevalence of disc herniation in dachshunds and found that dogs that performed at least one hour of daily physical activity were less prone to herniation than dogs that performed less physical activity.
Rehabilitation Strategies for Dogs with Spinal Cord Injuries
Rehabilitation strategies for dogs with spinal cord injuries vary depending on the severity and location of the injury. In dogs with complete spinal injuries and a lack of deep pain perception, rehabilitation aims to achieve spinal walking or involuntary unassisted gait. Studies have shown that intensive physiotherapy protocols can lead to the development of spinal walking in a significant percentage of patients.
A study by Gallucci et al. in 2015 evaluated the effectiveness of intensive physiotherapy in dogs with complete spinal injuries and a lack of deep pain perception. The study found that 59% of dogs developed an involuntary unassisted gait following intensive physiotherapy. Young age and an early start to physiotherapy were associated with better outcomes.
In conclusion, acute spinal injuries in veterinary medicine present complex challenges that require a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. Physiotherapy plays a central role in promoting recovery and improving outcomes for affected animals. Understanding the pathophysiology of spinal injuries, the principles of neuroplasticity, and the effectiveness of various rehabilitation strategies is crucial in developing tailored rehabilitation programs for individual patients. We will continue to watch the research to bring you up to date information.
Opie & His At Home! Laser Therapy For Dogs
Meet Opie, an adorable Coton de Tulear who has a great mom who wanted to help him. He came to Dr. Laurie first lame with pain in the shoulder, and then when that was healed, hurt his knee, tearing his cruciate (ACL or CCL) ligament.
Opie’s mom purchased a laser that she could use at home to treat his shoulder, his knee, his back, and even to increase stem cells for overall body healing. By having a laser at home, she can treat him as often as needed. Of course Dr. Laurie lets her know what areas on Opie to treat.
Are you interested in at home Laser Therapy? Check out our At Home! Laser Therapy courses. Don’t have a laser yet, Optimum Pet Vitality Recommends the Respond 2400VS and the Spectravet Zeus for at home therapy. Decide which one is right for you, purchase the course, and the corresponding company will give you 10% off the laser. Just think, it will have paid for itself in as little as 60 uses. You can be treating all kinds of issues At Home!
Best Exercises For Dogs With Elbow Issues
Do you know a dog with elbow arthritis or dysplasia? Even if you don’t see a limp, if a dog doesn’t have full range of motion in their elbow, they have something brewing.
In our last Learn & Go, we discussed lasering for dogs with elbow pain. But that’s not enough. We need to strengthen the muscles, tendons, and ligaments that surround and support the elbow joints. Dr. Laurie brings you the best exercises to do just that. And even better, Dr. Laurie’s techniques have less weight and compression on the joint than if the dog was just standing square.
Check out the video here:
Dr. Laurie demonstrates two types of exercises: one for beginners and one for those ready for a bit more challenge. Both can be done using a peanut ball. If your dog is too small for a peanut ball, maybe you have a dachshund, corgi, or other short legged dog, a pool noodle can take the place of the peanut ball.
Dr. Laurie offers 4 important tips:
How to know the correct size of ball for your dog
Where the dogs feet need to be placed to do these exercises correctly
Where the treat needs to be held
Tips on your posture to keep you safe
Join us to learn these important exercises and stay tuned for more valuable Learn & Go tips from Dr. Laurie and the OPV Team!
My Favorite Pet Elbow Laser Tip
Dr. Laurie is at it again, helping you, whether you are a pet parent or a pet professional with Awesome Tips and Tricks to help Optimize your pets and patients lives. Watch this video to see Dr. Laurie demonstrating her favorite tip for lasering the elbow. If your pet or patient has elbow issues (call out to all the Labrador Retriever owners - more elbow dysplasia and arthritis than any other breed) and you want to be able to help them, this video is for you. Learn how you can help them right at home or in the clinic for Optimum Pain Relief and Healing.
Ready to learn how to laser with your own pet at home with Dr. Laurie’s At Home! Laser Therapy course but don’t have a laser yet? Check out the Respond 2400VS and the Spectravet Zeus, both great models for At Home! Laser Therapy. But remember, you don’t have to have a laser to take the course!
Want more information about lasering At Home! Check out https://courses.optimumpetvitality.com/pet-laser-therapy
Want to learn even more about Lasering pets, subscribe to Optimum Pet Vitality's to stay up to date on ways to Optimize your Pet's Life at https://www.optimumpetvitality.com/
Preventing CCL Rupture: Eliminating the Warning Signs
In our last episodes we identified some early warning signs that increase the chance a dog will injure or rupture their cranial cruciate ligament. Now, we will talk about how to prevent that ligament tear by addressing those signs and symptoms early or even before they show up.
Monitoring for the presence or absence of effusion in the stifle allows us to create and implement a plan to keep our dogs’ knees as healthy as possible. Your clients can be a part of the team in identifying effusion early. When effusion is present, we know there is inflammation at the knee and we can reduce or eliminate it with
PEMF - Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy
Laser – at the veterinarian or at home - learn more at Optimum Laser Therapy for veterinary professionals or get on the waiting list to learn more about Optimum Laser Therapy for Pet Parents.
In addition to looking for effusion, we assess for crepitus. When we find it, the first thing we want to add is some form of chondroprotectents. In the video we discuss the secret ingredient to know which supplements are more likely to have a positive effect. When that isn’t enough, or if the dog is at a risk for knee inflammation or CCL rupture, using a PSGAG injectable disease modifying agent is our next possible step. If you don’t remember the super sensitive test that Dr. Laurie designed, check out our Preventing CCL Rupture: What Are the Warning Signs Part 1 episode by clicking here.
Both effusion and crepitus can indicate some degree of current or previous inflammation. Eliminating inflammation in the stifle is key when treating a CCL injury. In the last Learn & Go, Dr. Laurie taught us how to easily assess if the patella is tracking straight? We know that if it is not, then every time the knee bends and extends, the patella glides against the trochlear groove, scraping the cartilage of the femur and patella, and causing damage and inflammation to the cartilage and joint as a whole. Do you want to know the secret fix when the patella is pulled to one side? Oscillations. Watch today’s video to learn how to use Dr. Laurie’s method to find and fix this issue with ease and to increase patient comfort.
In CCL tears, partial or complete, pain can be found not only on flexion and extension, but also weight bearing, especially with the increased peak vertical force seen in the knee as the dog moves faster. Pain indicating some fibers are disrupted can be identified by testing cranial tibial thrust or anterior drawer tests. We review hand position and testing methods.
We can reduce pain with ice, laser, PEMF, and/or manual therapy. Dr. Laurie shares an easy manual therapy technique that can be done at home to decrease pain and improve range of motion for most any stifle with pain or restriction in movement.
Long before there is pain or pathology, bad posture can be an early indicator of things to come, such as CCL tears. By identifying and addressing poor posture in our canine patients early, we can change the biomechanics that contribute to CCL tears.
Strengthening the muscles around the stifle helps to stabilize the joint. But, we are fighting the body’s normal response. When animals are injured, or as they age, myostatin levels increase. Myostatin is a protein that reduces muscle production, leading to muscle atrophy. Our canine patients are in a catch-22. Fortunately, we now have a way to affect the myostatin levels. Fortetropin is a natural substance that decreases myostatin, allowing the muscle to rebuild and stabilize the stifle. Dr. Laurie talks about one supplement with Fortetropin that has been researched in dogs post-TPLO surgery as well as a supplement that she takes for arthritis.
Taking supplements alone will not build muscle. Implementing a muscle building exercise routine is key in the prevention and rehabilitation of CCL tears. Equipment is available we can use to encourage strength building. The OctoBoard is an amazing tool, designed with the cruciate dog in mind. It is shaped in an octagon to allow the dog to have 3 legs on the board and the leg to be strengthened on the floor. All of the dog’s ability to maintain balance is dependent on the muscles of the limb on the floor. Without any sheer force or added compression, we can strengthen the muscles that help stabilize the stifle, and the other joints in the limb. Dr. Laurie demonstrates strength exercises on the Octoboard.
Another important tool in the quest to strengthen canine limbs is the cavalettis. These series of bars require the dogs to use both their flexor muscles as they pick their legs up over each bar and their extensor muscles as they shift weight to lift the other limb. In this way, we can strengthen the quadriceps and gastrocnemius muscles, the ones that specifically help stabilize the knee. Dr. Laurie talks about using the Cavaletti Jacks, an easy to use adjustable set of cavalettis that can be set at 2”, 4”, 6”’ 8” or 11” for any size dog at any size level of challenge.
The final exercise that Dr. Laurie describes is Rhythmic Stabilization. This, easy to do, easy to teach, exercise turns on all of the muscles of stabilization in all four limbs and the trunk. This can be done in dogs of all ages and is a great starting exercise for all dogs. By pushing on the dog and having the dog push back into you, many of the muscles fire. Depending on where you push, you can target the strengthening process.
Remember, look for effusion, crepitus, and pain. Address those with ice, PEMF, laser, chondroprotectants, and oscillations. Most importantly, be sure to strengthen the joint with directed specific exercises designed for the stifle.
We hope you enjoyed this series and will join us for each Learn & Go session.
Preventing a CCL Rupture, What are the warning signs part 2
In the last Learn & Go we discussed the first 2 warning signs of a CCL rupture, today we talk about 4 more. The last one may be the most important and one you are not aware of.
First, we start with posture. Dogs with reduced angulation in the rear limbs, are more likely to tear their cruciate ligament. In our video, Dr. Laurie quickly and easily explains how to tell if the dog has straight or angulated rear limbs. She also describes the posture of dogs whose hips, knees, or hocks are painful and what that leads to.
The next two Warning Signs are seen in the patellas. Hand stack the dog so that the metatarsal bones are perpendicular to the ground. Measure the distance from the line of the metatarsal bones to the greater trochanter. More distance means more angulation. Moderation is the key. Akitas are known for having a straight rear. Labrador Retrievers are often moderately angled, and German Shepherd Dogs are one of the most, if not the most, angulated breeds.
Dr. Laurie also describes the posture of dogs whose hips, knees, or hocks are painful and what that leads to. Continued compression on the same spot on the cartilage is uncomfortable. The dog may straighten their rear legs moving the pressure to a new spot making the joint more comfortable. Unfortunately, this often leads to back pain. In the video we have pictures to show exactly what to look for. Knowing this, we can work with the dog and watch their flexion come back as our treatments make them more comfortable. As their rear limbs regain normal position, the pressure on their backs is reduced.
Sloppy, or puppy sitting, with weight on to one hip can either cause abnormal biomechanics leading to a CCL tear, or can be a warning sign of discomfort in the stifle. This is often a sign, long before a limp is evident . Weight shifting off of one rear limb on to the other is an obvious sign that something is painful, but shifting the weight forward is often overlooked. Dr. Laurie shows you an easy way to determine if the dog is shifting their weight forward.
In the video, Dr. Laurie also shares a special test that she uses to detect subtle changes in weight bearing, a simple test you don’t want to miss.
The next two Warning Signs are seen in the patella. Being able to evaluate the patella is key. Patella Alta and Patella Baja are normal variations. Dr. Laurie explains these variations and why they are important. Next, she demonstrates two tests that check for patella luxation. If the patellar tendon is no longer at the front of the stifle, there may be more instability allowing excess pressure on the cruciate ligament, and potentially increased damage..
The next test is the patella motion test. Motion in one direction, but not another, may indicate scar tissue pulling the patella into the femur, causing inflammation. If we don’t fix this, it doesn’t matter what else we do, we are fighting an uphill battle.
Last but not least, many veterinarians assess the stifle using the anterior drawer and cranial tibial thrust tests. Both tests are looking for abnormal motion. Another, more subtle sign, using these same tests is to assess for discomfort. This can only be seen if the tests are performed slowly. There may not be motion yet, since in some of these cases, a few but not all, of the fibers are still intact. In those cases there may be discomfort from the torn fibers. These torn fibers can be a cause of acute inflammation. Treating the dog early, when there is only pain and inflammation, and not waiting until there are other, more obvious signs, can be the difference between having a dog that doesn’t need surgery and one that does.
How to Prevent a Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Rupture
This is the first part of preventing Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) rupture, and I’m showing you the first two signs that a dogs CCL is in danger of rupturing. Both in regards to inflammation.
Let’s discuss two key indicators that may suggest risk that a dog's Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) will rupture; joint fluid thinning and increased volume of fluid in the joint. In our video, I will show you how to test for each of these indicators.
Cranial cruciate repair is so common now that 50-85% of all canine orthopedic surgeries performed each year are to repair ruptured CCLs, making it the most common orthopedic surgery done by orthopedic veterinary surgeons.
When I graduated from veterinary school in 1992, CCL tears were typically believed to be caused by trauma. However, today, we see that breakdown of the ligament, secondary to inflammation, is more frequently to blame.
Following that train of thought, if we can minimize or eliminate inflammation in the stifle, we can reduce the likelihood of a dog sustaining this painful injury and requiring surgery.
The first indication of inflammation, joint fluid thinning, is similar to a car's oil that does not perform optimally when it thins out. Joint fluid's primary role is to cushion the joint. It is thick and viscous and allows cartilage surfaces to glide next to each other smoothly as the joint flexes and extends under pressure.
When this cushion of joint fluid thins, the cartilage surfaces grind against each other. This results in the wear and tear of healthy cartilage and the release of chemicals that cause even more inflammation and further thinning of the joint fluid.
These chemicals that are released cause continuing breakdown of the CCL, allowing fibers to rupture bit by bit, until a partial or full CCL rupture has occurred.
Additionally, as cartilage wears away, an inferior cartilage matrix may develop to fill the gap, which is more prone to damage, and so the cycle continues.
Ideally, we want to find and stop this cycle of degeneration and inflammation as soon as possible. The test I show you in the video is the perfect way to identify the problem so we can break the cycle early.
They can be performed by veterinarians and pet parents, alike, so be sure to watch as I explain exactly what to look for.
If you aren’t a subscriber, be sure to sign up now HERE so you get the latest updates straight to your inbox, and always feel free to pass along to anyone who might benefit from this info!
Consider Cavaletti Jacks for Great At-Home Strengthening and practice
Cavaletti Jacks are lightweight, durable, portable cavalettis designed for the Rehab Therapist or Pet Parent working on proprioception, strength, balance, weight bearing, flexion, and so much more. Quickly adjustable from 2” up to 11” with color coding for exercising fun.
Made to order in the USA.
Order today and get your own amazing dog gym pieces!
We have found shipping costs to locations outside the US, the West Coast and HI to be inaccurate/higher, please contact us for the most accurate price to ship.
How to Prevent The #1 Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Complication
There is an often overlooked CCL injury and/or surgery complication. Because most people don’t know about it , it goes untreated and increases the chance that the dog will tear their other CCL 12-18 months after they tore the first.
We’ve been talking about issues related to and how to prevent cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears. Today, we’re continuing the CCL discussion, but I want to introduce the number one complication related to CCL surgery that is overlooked.
If I were to ask you to list the most common surgical complications, you’d likely come up with infection, hemorrhage, shock, blood clots. These are common and problematic. But when we talk about cranial cruciate injury or surgery, there is something we must specifically look for because unless we do something to stop it, every dog that has a cranial cruciate injury or surgery has this happen. And when it does, it increases the chances that the other cranial cruciate ligament will be injured.
The #1 cranial cruciate injury or surgery Complication is Range of Motion Loss
The most common things we see with CCL injury or surgery is loss of flexion of the hock and extension of the stifle. This may not seem like a big issue, but it can lead to something much worse. It can be a factor in the tearing of the opposite CCL. Remember, 25-50% of dogs that tear one cruciate will tear the other in the next 16 months.
It makes sense, every time a dog sits, they flex their hock. When they flex the hock, the tibia is pushed forward, straining the cranial cruciate ligament fibers. If some of the fibers are torn, it puts added stress on the remaining fibers, causing pain. If the whole ligament is torn, it puts abnormal stress on the joint capsule as the tibia slides forward, also causing pain.
To prevent the pain, dogs will decrease the amount they are willing to flex their hock. To keep the hock at 90 degrees instead of 30-45 degrees of flexion, they will hold the limb forward as seen by the tip of the toes being ahead of the other side. They will hold the leg out to the side, and they may externally rotate the leg with their toes pointing out. They then shift their weight off of the leg which had the cruciate injury onto the other side. The healthier leg is held medially, or toward midline when standing, has added weight on it when they are sitting and laying down, and has added stress at the joint when they rise into a stand. This puts added stress on the knee on the good side, causing inflammation. It is the inflammation that causes stress to the cruciate ligament that can then cause the sprain or tear on the good side.
Early warning signs of trouble in the “good” knee
Thinning synovial fluid and then effusion. In this series we will discuss how anyone can check for effusion and the most sensitive way to assess for thin joint fluid. Watch for that post.
How to Assess and Treat Range of Motion IssueS
Assessing a dog’s range of motion is easy with a Goniometer. With some specific manual therapy and/or some passive range of motion exercises, we can keep available motion in the normal range or return it to normal quickly when it is lost. I touch on this briefly in this video, but will go more in depth in a couple weeks.
How to perform passive range of motion correctly
It is super important to work on flexion and extension of each joint independently to prevent putting excessive strain on some of the joints without benefiting the restricted joints. Some joints may be hypermobile (having too much motion) and they can actually become even more hypermobile or overstretched, to compensate for the hypomobile joint (a joint that has restricted motion) when several joints are motioned at the same time. This can lead to an injury at the hypermobile joint and not change the range of motion of the restricted joint. We never want to stretch a joint in the direction of its hypermobility. We do want to perform passive range of motion if there is restricted motion, to normalize it.
We always want to work within the dog’s comfort level.
There are rare instances that we want to increase tarsal extension. If this is done indiscriminately, we can cause irreversible damage.
The 90 Second Rule
To increase flexibility (muscle related) or range of motion (joint related), we stick to the 90-second rule. That means flex or extend the joint that has lost flexion or extension in either two sets of 45 seconds, three sets of 30 seconds, or my favorite, 10 sets of 10 seconds. I know this adds up to 100, but it’s easy to remember and works really well.
If you aren’t a subscriber, be sure to sign up now HERE so you get the latest updates straight to your inbox, and always feel free to pass along to anyone who might benefit from this info!
Consider Cavaletti Jacks for Great At-Home Strengthening and practice
Cavaletti Jacks are lightweight, durable, portable cavalettis designed for the Rehab Therapist or Pet Parent working on proprioception, strength, balance, weight bearing, flexion, and so much more. Quickly adjustable from 2” up to 11” with color coding for exercising fun.
Made to order in the USA.
Order today and get your own amazing dog gym pieces!
We have found shipping costs to locations outside the US, the West Coast and HI to be inaccurate/higher, please contact us for the most accurate price to ship.
How to prevent Another Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) Tear
Second CCL tears are unfortunately a huge problem for dogs that have already had one. In this Learn & Go, I show you how to spot issues and more importantly, what can be done to prevent second tears and surgeries.
Time to talk about Rio again. If you missed the last Learn & Go, Rio is a 10 year old Border Collie who was doing Agility and Flyball his whole life until he tore his right cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). He had surgery five months before I saw him, but hasn’t been the same since.
Rio had a typical post-cruciate “sit.” That is to say, the injured side was externally rotated, pushed forward, and there was a significant reduction in knee and hock flexion. All dogs, even Border Collies who have some external rotation in their hind limbs, should sit with their hind limbs well bent at the hock and stifle with the limbs tucked under them. Rio clearly held the affected limb abnormally.
We knew Rio was at risk of tearing his good CCL because he was overusing his good leg while he was off weighting his surgery leg. This is common after a CCL tear because the other limb ends up holding most of the weight when standing, walking, and rising from a sit or down position.
In Rio, there were already changes in his good knee that were warning signs. He had effusion, an indication of inflammation, which is the first sign of trouble. It can be reduced with supplements, possibly medications, and specific treatments, including ice, laser and Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) therapy. But, the most important steps are to reduce the excess weight bearing on this limb and to strengthen the structures around this joint.
During his assessment, I found other complications, including back pain, elbow tenderness, and inability to stretch the biceps brachii muscle on both sides. His biceps can get excessively tight while he pulls his weight forward and over uses his front legs. As he continues to overuse his front end, we may see continued or additional areas of damage. If this happens, he will likely become less active overall as his compensations are now part of the problem. He can develop generalized atrophy and discomfort.
We were able to make him more comfortable immediately. I gave him exercises to do at home to strengthen the muscles that support the knees, hocks and elbows. We also worked on improving his range of motion at the tarsus so he can use his surgery leg appropriately, bending it underneath him, allowing for him to lift from a sit using that leg. All of these exercises will ultimately balance all 4 limbs bringing him back to a level of strength he had before the surgery.
Watch the video below all the way to the end. The last slide has great pictures of him after treatment, definitely worth watching for.
Consider Cavaletti Jacks for Great At-Home Strengthening and practice
Cavaletti Jacks are lightweight, durable, portable cavalettis designed for the Rehab Therapist or Pet Parent working on proprioception, strength, balance, weight bearing, flexion, and so much more. Quickly adjustable from 2” up to 11” with color coding for exercising fun.
Made to order in the USA.
Order today and get your own amazing dog gym pieces!
We have found shipping costs to locations outside the US, the West Coast and HI to be inaccurate/higher, please contact us for the most accurate price to ship.
Diagnosing and Treating A Dog’s Tarsal INjury
Rio, a 10-year-old Border Collie, came to me with some lameness. What was at the root of his issues? I’ll explain how I spotted it and how I treated him.
Let me introduce you to Rio, a 10-year-old Border Collie who went from being active and highly competitive in agility and flyball to slowing down considerable.
Rio’s dad drove 6 hours to see me; I had to find and fix his problems.What I found was not what we expected.
It's common to lose flexion of the hock on the same side as a cruciate rupture, but in Rio’s case, his other hock was a mess. Being that this was his good leg and most of his weight was shifted on to it, we needed to find a way to make it better.
I'm not going into his primary issue in this video (that will be the next Learn & Go). Today I'm showing you how easy it can be to miss something big, how to spot it and treat it.
In Rio’s case, effusion (abnormal collection of fluid) of the hock was visible, but this is not always the case. Take a look at the X-rays in the video to understand what you can look for.
Laser for Inflammation
Laser is always a great go-to when faced with inflammation. In Rio’s case, I was able to decrease the size of his hock by ~30%. There wasn’t complete success, however, because of bony or hard fibrous tissue changes.
Adding in Traction and A Mulligan Technique
Range of motion and discomfort were still an issue until we used traction and a Mulligan Technique. See 2:15 in the video to learn more about traction and 2:55 to understand the Mulligan Technique.
Strengthening After Treatment
Once pain is gone and the range of motion is back to normal, we need to strengthen the muscles, tendons and ligaments to prevent further injury.
Cavaletti Jacks are the perfect piece of equipment for strengthening the hock because you can set the height and distance for maximum hock flexion.
Incline sitting in another exercise that helps hock flexion and unilateral side strengthening. If you watch the video, you’ll see me demonstrate with my dog, Ollie, using our OctoBoard on four different levels so you can see how gravity affects his body.
Supplements for Musculoskeletal Support
Canine Musculoskeletal Support from Standard Process and good collagen will provide the support dogs need to heal even better and stay healthier for longer.
Order your own set of Cavaletti Jacks
Cavaletti Jacks are lightweight, durable, portable cavalettis designed for the Rehab Therapist or Pet Parent working on proprioception, strength, balance, weight bearing, flexion, and so much more. Quickly adjustable from 2” up to 11” with color coding for exercising fun.
Made to order in the USA.
Order today and get your own amazing dog gym pieces!