Dog Care: Torn Knee Ligament
The connective tissue between your dog's thigh bone and lower leg bone is called the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). The CCL's role is to steady the stifle joint, which is the equivalent of a human's knee joint. The CCL can tear due to trauma, overuse or too much pressure. A bad jump and being overweight are common causes for the development of a torn knee ligament in dogs. This is a serious injury that can destabilise the stifle joint and lead to degenerative joint disease and lameness. Any breed of dog can develop a torn CCL, but larger breeds, such as rottweilers and labradors, seem to be at an increased risk of developing this condition. A torn CCL tends to develop suddenly, so being aware of the signs of this type of injury can ensure you get your dog the help they need quickly.
Signs Of A Torn Knee Ligament
A torn CCL will cause your dog to experience pain when walking, so your dog may be able to put some weight on the affected leg and walk with a limp or they may not be able to put any weight on the affected leg. Localised swelling is common due to fluid building up in the joint, and your dog may also show signs of being in pain, such as irritability and withdrawal from social contact.
Treating A Torn Knee Ligament
Your vet can diagnose a torn knee ligament by examining the affected area and carrying out an X-ray or CT scan to determine the extent of the damage that's occurred. Depending on your vet's findings, they may recommend a conservative treatment approach, which may include rest, anti-inflammatory medication and painkillers. However, it's common for dogs with this type of injury to require surgery to repair the ligament and stabilise the joint. Surgery can also prevent degenerative joint diseases from developing later on. After surgery, your dog will need to recover in a calm environment and may need to be carried outside for toilet breaks while they recover. They may also require the support of a physiotherapist to ensure they regain the full range of motion in the affected joint.
If your dog is showing any of the signs of a torn knee ligament, don't wait and see whether they improve on their own. Treatment is vital to protect your dog's stifle joint and prevent unnecessary suffering, so contact your vet as soon as your dog has any problems walking or bearing weight on any of their legs. A vet surgeon can talk to you about treatment options.