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
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