What can be done for luxating patella in dogs?
The methods for treating a luxating patella in dogs range from conservative medical management to surgery, depending on the grade of the disease. Most grade I and grade II instances are treated through pain and anti-inflammatory medications, weight management and exercise restriction.
Should I get a dog with a luxating patella?
Many dogs (especially small breeds) can live their entire life with a grade I or II luxating patella without pain or arthritis. Most vets will tell you that grade III or IV luxations need surgery sooner or later. These more severe luxations can cause increased pain, arthritis and reduced mobility.
When does patellar luxation occur in a dog?
Patellar luxation occurs when the dog’s kneecap (patella) is dislocated from its normal anatomic position in the groove of the thigh bone (femur).
What does luxating patella mean in medical terms?
Luxating patella (or trick knee, subluxation of patella, floating patella, or floating kneecap) is a condition in which the patella, or kneecap, dislocates or moves out of its normal location.
Is it necessary to have surgery for luxating patella?
Surgery is not always necessary for this condition. Many small dogs live their entire life with luxating patella and it never results in arthritis or pain, nor does it interfere with the dog’s life.
What are the different grades of Patella luxation?
The four recognized diagnostic grades of patellar luxation include, in order of severity: Grade I – the patella can be manually luxated but is reduced (returns to the normal position) when released. Grade II – the patella can be manually luxated or it can spontaneously luxate with flexion of the stifle joint.
What to do about luxating patella?
The first treatment one should try when a luxating patella occurs is the RICE treatment. RICE stands for rest, ice, compression, and elevation. These actions will help reduce swelling and pain while encouraging blood flow and oxygen delivery to the injury.
What is the recovery time after patella surgery?
The short-term recovery time after a knee replacement surgery spans somewhere between 6 to 12 weeks. During the first two days after the surgery, the patient is made to stand with support and is made to do a few exercises.
Is luxating patella surgery necessary?
Surgery is not always necessary for this condition. Many small dogs live their entire life with luxating patella and it never results in arthritis or pain, nor does it interfere with the dog’s life. Grade 3 or 4 luxations normally require surgery as greater pain or discomfort will be involved,…
What to do for dogs with luxating patella?
What To Do For Dogs With Luxating Patella Help your dog achieve and maintain a healthy body weight. The heavier the dog, the more burden there will be on his knees. Keep your pup moving. Helping your dog achieve an optimal body condition means more than just losing excess fat. Provide oral joint support supplements.