A luxating patella is simply another way of saying a dislocated kneecap, and it is a condition that is relatively common in dogs. If you have recently noticed that your dog isn’t moving as freely or comfortably as usual, it could be that this condition is to blame. 

Causes and Risk Factors for a Luxating Patella

It’s rarely the case that there is a single cause for a health condition seen in dogs (or humans, for that matter). When it comes to a luxating patella in dogs, there are a few different possibilities that could lead to this point.

• Injury: It’s possible for a trauma to lead to a luxated patella in your dog. This could come as the result of a sudden impact when your dog crashes into something while running, or it could result from a significant fall. 

• Obesity: If your dog is currently overweight, the additional pressure placed on the joints by that weight could lead to this condition, or it could make it worse. 

Watching for These Luxating Patella Symptoms

Paying attention to how your dog moves while walking or running will allow you to notice if anything seems off about their gait. With regard to a luxating patella, there is commonly a skipping or hopping move that dogs will use to stay off of the affected leg and reduce pain. If you see this action occurring in your pet, take note and consider visiting the vet to explore the problem further. 

Additionally, you might notice some signs of discomfort in your dog when you touch the area around their affected knee. Sensitivity to touch is generally a sign of a more accelerated, significant case of luxated patella.

Receiving a Proper Diagnosis for Patellar Luxation

Even if you have noticed some signs that you think may indicate a patella problem in your dog, a proper diagnosis needs to come from a veterinarian. Your vet can perform some specific tests on the dog during the exam, including checking on the knee joint and evaluating the gait and posture of the dog as he or she walks around. It’s also possible that X-rays will be needed to confirm or rule out the condition. 

Two Types of Treatment Options for Luxating Patella in Dogs

As is the case with many different types of conditions that dogs can experience, there are two general categories of care that are possible – non-invasive treatment and surgical intervention.

When the case at hand is relatively mild – Grade 1 or 2 – it’s often possible to address the issue with treatments like rehabilitation therapy.

Of course, there are more severe cases of luxating patella that will need to be resolved with surgery. These are usually cases that are categorized as Grade 3 or 4, and non-invasive management (rehab) is unlikely to provide enough benefit at this point to support long-term recovery. However, following up with rehab is still an excellent option after the surgery has been completed, as this will help the dog recover to their previous level of activity. 

Canine Rehabilitation as a Non-Invasive Option

For dogs who have a Grade 1 or 2 luxating patella, the outlook with canine rehabilitation is a positive one. Rehabilitation guided by a qualified professional like those here at Austin Canine Rehab can improve joint stability and strengthen muscles through the use of specific land-based exercises designed to deal with this condition. When successful, your dog will be relieved of the pain and discomfort that they have been experiencing for weeks or months and will be able to get back to enjoying many of their favorite activities once again.

An Encouraging Success Story

The case of Harley, a 9-year-old Shiba Inu who was treated by Austin Canine Rehab, is a great example of how luxating patellas can be addressed.

The recovery of the surgically repaired left leg was a success, but that wasn’t the only victory. We were also able to manage the luxation in his right leg, providing treatment that improved the grade of the condition without the need for surgery. In the end, the right leg avoided surgery entirely, and Harley is back to living a comfortable, enjoyable lifestyle.

Austin Canine Rehab is Ready to Assist

If you have received a diagnosis of a luxating patella from your vet and want to explore treatment options that can help your pet regain mobility and reduce pain, a call to Austin Canine Rehab is a good starting point. We’d be happy to chat with you and explain what services we can offer. Let’s connect today!

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