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Fractures

Condition Guide

Fractures

What are Fractures?

As with people, fractures occur commonly in dogs. There is a huge variety of different types of fractures, and these all have different treatments and carry different outlooks.

Although having a fracture can be very traumatic for both pet and owner, the good news is that, with the correct treatment, most fractures in dogs and cats will heal well and most animals can regain normal use of their legs.

How are Fractures treated?

Many fractures occur as a result of significant trauma, such as being hit by a car, and in these patients it is important that any life-threatening injuries are recognised and managed before treating the fracture which can generally be attended to less urgently.

Depending on the type of fracture, different forms of treatment might be recommended. Initially, X-rays or a CT scan are performed to assess the broken bone and plan the treatment. Some fractures, especially in very young animals, can be treated using fibreglass casts.

Most animals are best treated with an operation due to their inability to appropriately rest the affected bones. This allows the broken bones to be re-aligned and stabilised. Options for stabilising the bones include bone plates and screws, pins that are placed inside the bone, or external frames that are connected to the bone using pins going through the skin. Some fractures are relatively straightforward to manage and others are very complex, necessitating considerable orthopaedic instrumentation, implants and expertise.

Following surgery, most animals are very comfortable and are able to walk relatively normally within a few days.

Orthopaedic rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

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The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.

Elbow Dysplasia

Condition Guide

Elbow Dysplasia

What is Elbow Dysplasia?

Elbow dysplasia is a catch-all term that means there is an abnormal development of the elbow joint. It inevitably leads to the development of arthritis. Either the elbow dysplasia or the secondary arthritis may cause elbow pain.

Elbow dysplasia is a genetic disorder. An uneven fit of the three bones in the elbow is suspected and this results in abnormal distribution of weight within the joint. Points of increased pressure cause damage to the cartilage covering the bones, and fragmentation of cartilage and the underlying bone may develop.

Elbow dysplasia is a common condition, especially in large breed dogs. 

What are the symptoms of Elbow Dysplasia?

Affected dogs may show signs of:

  • Fore Limb lameness
  • Stiffness after exercise
  • Reduced weight bearing on forelimbs
  • Paw rotation
  • Muscle wastage

How is Elbow Dysplasia diagnosed?

Examination may reveal muscle wastage, especially over the hips. Manipulation of the joints may cause increased pain and instability may be palpable. Swelling and restriction in the range of motion may also be evident.

X-rays are necessary to diagnose elbow dysplasia. They enable the severity of the abnormal joint development and presence of secondary osteoarthritis to be assessed.

A CT scan is a form of X-ray that produces thin slices through the joint in any plane. These images can be reformatted to give a 3-D model of the joint. CT gives excellent detail of the shape (congruency) of the joint and enables detection of small bony fragments. Damage to the surface of the joint can be assessed by placing a small camera in the joint – this is called arthroscopic examination. It provides more detail of the joint surfaces than radiographs or a CT scan.

How is a Elbow Dysplasia treated?

Some dogs with elbow dysplasia can be managed satisfactorily without the need for surgery. Exercise often needs to be controlled to some degree. Each dog will have its own threshold of duration and type of activity beyond which elbow pain may increase. Hydrotherapy is often beneficial. Dogs that are overweight benefit from being placed on a diet. 

Dogs with elbow dysplasia that fail to respond satisfactorily to conservative treatment may need surgery. There are three key types of surgery:

The outlook or prognosis with elbow dysplasia and the associated osteochondrosis/osteoarthritis is quite variable. Some dogs can be managed successfully with conservative treatment involving modification of exercise and weight, with or without the need for anti-inflammatory painkiller drugs. Others benefit from removal of cartilage and bone fragments or surgery to improve joint congruency. The majority of dogs lead satisfactory lives, although their exercise and weight may need to be closely monitored. A degree of stiffness and lameness, especially after exercise, is not uncommon.

Orthopaedic rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

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Our friendly and skilled physiotherapists are ready to help you and your dog with their rehabilitation.

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The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.

Triple Pelvic Osteotomy Surgery (TPO)

Condition Guide

Triple Pelvic Osteotomy Surgery (TPO)

What is Triple Pelvic Osteotomy Surgery (TPO)?

Triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) is a surgery performed in medium to large breed dogs with early clinical hip dysplasia signs. The goals of the procedure are eliminating coxofemoral joint laxity, improving hip congruity, and normalising stresses on the hip joint. This should help to prevent or reduce the development of osteoarthritis. 

Why would an Triple Pelvic Osteotomy Surgery (TPO) be recommended?

Candidates for triple pelvic osteotomy (TPO) are dogs over 30 pounds and older than 5 months of age but rarely older than 1 year of age. If hip looseness is seen on X-Rays without evidence of arthritis, the TPO is usually a very good option. A sedated examination is required in addition to the X-Rays in order to evaluate the degree of looseness and to determine the degree of correction that would be required with surgery.

What does Triple Pelvic Osteotomy Surgery (TPO) involve?

A TPO involves bone cuts in the pelvis so that the socket portion of the joint can be rotated over the ball; the bones are then stabilised with a bone plate. The surgery helps to provide better coverage of the ball portion of the hip joint, which eliminates joint laxity. Typically, dogs that undergo this procedure are puppies and younger than 1 year of age. The procedure can be performed on both sides simultaneously but, more commonly, each procedure is separated by four to six weeks. Once arthritis is apparent on X-Rays, a TPO can no longer be performed.

What is post surgical life like after Triple Pelvic Osteotomy Surgery (TPO)?

Aftercare following TPO surgery is very important, with rehabilitation taking many months. Exercise must be very restricted for the first few weeks until the soft tissues and cut bone heal, and at this stage is primarily for toileting purposes. It must be on a lead or harness to prevent strenuous activity. At other times confinement to a pen or a small room in the house is necessary with avoidance of jumping and climbing.

After a few weeks, exercise may be gradually increased in a controlled manner (still on a lead) as guided by a physiotherapist and Hydrotherapy may be recommended.

A check-up is necessary six to eight weeks after the operation. Limb and stifle function are checked at this time. X-rays are obtained to evaluate healing of the bone. Depending on progress advice is given regarding increasing exercise. 

 

Post surgical rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

I'm ready to get some help for my dog

Ready to get some help?

Our friendly and skilled physiotherapists are ready to help you and your dog with their rehabilitation.

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The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.

Hip Dysplasia

Condition Guide

Hip Dysplasia

What is Hip Dysplasia?

Hip dysplasia is a catch-all term that means there is an abnormal development of the hip joint. It inevitably leads to the development of arthritis. Either the hip dysplasia or the secondary arthritis may cause hip pain.

Hip dysplasia is a genetic disorder. During the first few months of life, as the hips are developing, they become unstable. As a result the ball and socket move apart during weight bearing. This causes abnormal forces on the soft bones which leads to the ball becoming flattened and the socket becoming shallow. The process is self-perpetuating and causes damage to the covering of the bones. Cartilage damage is a key feature of the secondary osteoarthritis.

What are the symptoms of Hip Dysplasia?

Affected dogs may show signs of:

  • Hind limb lameness
  • Stiffness after exercise
  • Difficulty rising
  • Reluctance to jump or exercise
  • A rolling hind limb motion in young dogs
  • Restlessness
  • Moaning
  • Licking over the hip

How is Hip Dysplasia diagnosed?

Examination may reveal muscle wastage, especially over the hips. Manipulation of the joints may cause increased pain and instability may be palpable.

X-rays are necessary to diagnose hip dysplasia. They enable the severity of the abnormal joint development and presence of secondary osteoarthritis to be assessed.

How is a Hip Dysplasia treated?

The majority of dogs with hip dysplasia can be managed satisfactorily without the need for surgery. Exercise often needs to be controlled to some degree. Each dog will have its own threshold of duration and type of activity beyond which hip pain may increase. Hydrotherapy is often beneficial. Dogs that are overweight benefit from being placed on a diet.

Some dogs with hip dysplasia fail to respond satisfactorily to conservative treatment and in these cases surgery may be indicated. The two key types of surgery are:

The outlook or prognosis with hip dysplasia and the associated osteoarthritis is generally good. 

Orthopaedic rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

I'm ready to get some help for my dog

Ready to get some help?

Our friendly and skilled physiotherapists are ready to help you and your dog with their rehabilitation.

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The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.

Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture (CCL)

Condition Guide

Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture (CCL)

What is a Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture (CCL)?

The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) is an important ligament inside the knee (stifle) joints of dogs. In people it is referred to as the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) – a commonly recognised area injured in sports people. The ligament plays an important role in stabilising the stifle during weight-bearing. It prevents the shin bone moving forwards relative to the thigh bone.

The cruciate ligament tends to undergo degenerative changes that weaken it prior to rupturing. The reason the cruciate ligament degenerates prior to rupturing is not clearly understood. Certain breeds, such as Labradors and Rottweilers, are much more commonly affected than others. 

Rupture of the CCL is the most common cause of hind limb lameness in dogs and is associated with the development of Osteoarthritis in the stifle.

What are the symptoms of Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture (CCL)?

Affected dogs may show signs of:

  • Sudden or gradual hind limb lameness
  • Lameness evident after exercise
  • Difficulty rising and jumping
  • Clicking noises from the joint

How is Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture (CCL) diagnosed?

Examination may reveal muscle wastage, especially over the front of the thigh. Thickening of the stifle (knee) is often palpable.

Manipulation of the joint may enable the detection of instability. Flexion and extension of the joint may cause pain. In some cases palpation under sedation may be necessary to enable the detection of more subtle instability of the knee as occurs with partial rupture of the CCL.

X-rays provide additional information, especially regarding the presence and severity of osteoarthritis.

How is a Cranial Cruciate Ligament Rupture (CCL) treated?

Some dogs with CCL rupture can be managed satisfactorily without the need for surgery – this is called conservative management. The smaller the dog, the more likely it is that this approach will be successful. Exercise needs to be restricted. Hydrotherapy is often beneficial. Dogs that are overweight benefit from being placed on a diet. 

Many medium, large and giant breed dogs with CCL rupture benefit from surgery. The key types of surgery are:

The outlook or prognosis with CCL rupture is quite variable. Unfortunately all dogs with CCL rupture develop osteoarthritis. This can result in permanent lameness and stiffness in some cases.

Orthopaedic rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

I'm ready to get some help for my dog

Ready to get some help?

Our friendly and skilled physiotherapists are ready to help you and your dog with their rehabilitation.

Get Referred to Us

More conditions

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The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.

TTA Surgery for Cruciate Ligament Rupture

Condition Guide

TTA Surgery for Cruciate Ligament Rupture

What is TTA Surgery for Cruciate Ligament Rupture?

TTA is the abbreviation for tibial tuberosity advancement a common surgical procedure used to treat cranial (or anterior) cruciate ligament rupture in the knee joints of dogs. 

Cranial cruciate ligament rupture is the most common cause of hind limb lameness in dogs. As a result, TTA and other operations that involve altering the shape of the tibia are common orthopaedic surgical procedures performed in dogs in specialist orthopaedic practices.

Why would an TTA Surgery for Cruciate Ligament Rupture be recommended?

Following rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament, the knee becomes unstable. When the dog takes weight on the limb this instability allows the shin bone to move forward. The stifle (knee) feels as though it is ‘giving-way’ and this can cause the dog to appear severely lame.

TTA surgery aims to make the tibial plateau perpendicular to the patellar tendon and, in doing so, prevent the shin bone moving forwards. The knee then feels stable for the dog when weight-bearing, despite the fact that the ligament has been ruptured and not directly repaired.

Candidates for TTA surgery are dogs with a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament that have persistent lameness and stifle joint instability. Young dogs and those with rupture of both of their ligaments (bilateral disease) are particularly good candidates.

What does TTA Surgery for Cruciate Ligament Rupture involve?

Very specific X-rays need to be obtained of the stifle and tibia. The presence and severity of osteoarthritis can be assessed and the angle of the top of the shin bone measured. The position of the cut on the bone, the amount the bone needs to be rotated, and the size of plate necessary to stabilise the bone in its new position can then be evaluated. 

Surgery may be performed on the same or a different day from the investigations. Prior to performing the TTA a small incision or cut is made into the knee joint to enable inspection of the structures within it.

Many dogs with ruptured cranial cruciate ligaments tear their cartilages (menisci). Damaged portions need to be removed. At the same time remnants of the ruptured ligament can be trimmed. A special implant is applied to the cut bone that has been designed especially for surgery. 

X-rays are obtained at the end of the operation to assess the new angle of the top of the shin bone and check the position of the plate and screws. 

What is post surgical life like after TTA Surgery for Cruciate Ligament Rupture?

Aftercare following TTA surgery is very important, with rehabilitation taking many months. Exercise must be very restricted for the first few weeks until the soft tissues and cut bone heal, and at this stage is primarily for toileting purposes. It must be on a lead or harness to prevent strenuous activity. At other times confinement to a pen or a small room in the house is necessary with avoidance of jumping and climbing.

After a few weeks, exercise may be gradually increased in a controlled manner (still on a lead) as guided by a physiotherapist and Hydrotherapy may be recommended.

A check-up is necessary six to eight weeks after the operation. Limb and stifle function are checked at this time. X-rays are obtained to evaluate healing of the bone cut. Depending on progress advice is given regarding increasing exercise. 

There are potential complications including infection, screw loosening and slow healing of the cut bone. A small percentage of dogs that didn’t have an injured cartilage at the time of TTA surgery tear it at a later date. A sudden increase in lameness usually develops and a second operation is necessary to remove the torn piece of cartilage.

However, although there is the potential for complications, in the majority of patients selected to undergo TTA surgery, knee pain is reduced and function of the limb is improved.

Post surgical rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

I'm ready to get some help for my dog

Ready to get some help?

Our friendly and skilled physiotherapists are ready to help you and your dog with their rehabilitation.

Get Referred to Us

More conditions

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The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.

TPLO surgery for cruciate ligament rupture

Condition Guide

TPLO surgery for cruciate ligament rupture

What is TPLO surgery for cruciate ligament rupture?

TPLO is the abbreviation for tibial plateau levelling osteotomy – a common surgical procedure used to treat cranial (or anterior) cruciate ligament rupture in the knee joints of dogs. It involves changing the angle of the top of the shin bone by cutting the bone, rotating it, and stabilising it in a new position with a plate and screws.

Cranial cruciate ligament rupture is the most common cause of hind limb lameness in dogs. As a result TPLO surgery is one of the most common orthopaedic surgical procedures performed in dogs in specialist orthopaedic practices.

Why would an TPLO surgery for cruciate ligament rupture be recommended?

Following rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament, the knee becomes unstable. When the dog takes weight on the limb this instability allows the shin bone to move forward. The stifle (knee) feels as though it is ‘giving-way’ and this can cause the dog to appear severely lame.

TPLO surgery aims to make the tibial plateau perpendicular to the long axis of the bone and, in doing so, to prevent the shin bone moving forwards. The stifle therefore feels stable for the dog when weight-bearing, despite the fact that the ligament has been ruptured and not directly repaired.

Candidates for TPLO surgery are dogs with a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament that have persistent lameness and stifle joint instability. Young dogs and those with rupture of both of their ligaments (bilateral disease) are particularly good candidates.

What does TPLO surgery for cruciate ligament rupture involve?

Very specific X-rays need to be obtained of the stifle and tibia. The presence and severity of osteoarthritis can be assessed and the angle of the top of the shin bone measured. The position of the cut on the bone, the amount the bone needs to be rotated, and the size of plate necessary to stabilise the bone in its new position can then be evaluated. 

Surgery may be performed on the same or a different day from the investigations. Prior to performing the TPLO a small incision or cut is made into the knee joint to enable inspection of the structures within it.

Many dogs with ruptured cranial cruciate ligaments tear their cartilages (menisci). Damaged portions need to be removed. At the same time remnants of the ruptured ligament can be trimmed. A special plate is applied to the cut bone that has been designed especially for surgery. Some of the screws are “locked” into the plate which makes the repair stronger.

X-rays are obtained at the end of the operation to assess the new angle of the top of the shin bone and check the position of the plate and screws. 

What is post surgical life like after TPLO surgery for cruciate ligament rupture?

Aftercare following TPLO surgery is very important, with rehabilitation taking many months. Exercise must be very restricted for the first few weeks until the soft tissues and cut bone heal, and at this stage is primarily for toileting purposes. It must be on a lead or harness to prevent strenuous activity. At other times confinement to a pen or a small room in the house is necessary with avoidance of jumping and climbing.

After a few weeks, exercise may be gradually increased in a controlled manner (still on a lead) as guided by a physiotherapist and Hydrotherapy may be recommended.

A check-up is necessary six to eight weeks after the operation. Limb and stifle function are checked at this time. X-rays are obtained to evaluate healing of the bone cut. Depending on progress advice is given regarding increasing exercise. 

There are potential complications including infection, screw loosening and slow healing of the cut bone. A small percentage of dogs that didn’t have an injured cartilage at the time of TPLO surgery tear it at a later date. A sudden increase in lameness usually develops and a second operation is necessary to remove the torn piece of cartilage.

However, although there is the potential for complications, in the majority of patients selected to undergo TPLO surgery, knee pain is reduced and function of the limb is improved.

Post surgical rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

I'm ready to get some help for my dog

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Our friendly and skilled physiotherapists are ready to help you and your dog with their rehabilitation.

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The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.

Total Knee Replacement Surgery (TKR)

Condition Guide

Total Knee Replacement Surgery (TKR)

What is Total Knee Replacement Surgery (TKR)?

Total knee replacement (TKR) surgery is a rarely conducted major procedure with possible complications. TKR surgery is primarily performed in medium and large dogs.

Why would an Total Knee Replacement Surgery (TKR) be recommended?

Candidates for surgery are dogs with persistently painful knees (stifles) that are not responding satisfactorily to medical management. Signs of knee pain include lameness, stiffness, difficulty rising, difficulty jumping, restlessness and reluctance to exercise and play.

The most common cause of knee joint pain is osteoarthritis associated with rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL). Dogs with knee osteoarthritis, no matter how severe, are not candidates for TKR surgery if signs of pain and lameness are mild and readily controlled by conservative measures such as physiotherapy and hydrotherapy.

What does Total Knee Replacement Surgery (TKR) involve?

Joint replacements are amongst the most challenging operations performed by veterinary orthopaedic surgeons. The operation is performed through an incision directly over the front of the knee. Careful preparation of the two bones that make up the knee is necessary prior to placement of the relevant prostheses. The two artificial components are then brought together and the stability of the knee checked. X-Rays are obtained at the end of the operation to check the position of the prostheses.

What is post surgical life like after Total Knee Replacement Surgery (TKR)?

Aftercare following TKR surgery is very important with rehabilitation taking many months. Exercise must be very restricted for the first few weeks until the joint capsule and other soft tissues heal. This is the period when dislocation of the prostheses is most likely.

Exercise is primarily for toileting purposes. It must be on a lead or harness to prevent strenuous activity. At other times confinement to a pen or a small room in the house is necessary with avoidance of jumping and climbing. After a few weeks, exercise may be gradually increased in a controlled manner (still on a lead). Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy are important aspects of postoperative care.

Post surgical rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

I'm ready to get some help for my dog

Ready to get some help?

Our friendly and skilled physiotherapists are ready to help you and your dog with their rehabilitation.

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More conditions

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The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.

Total Hip Replacement Surgery (THR)

Condition Guide

Total Hip Replacement Surgery (THR)

What is Total Hip Replacement Surgery (THR)?

Total hip replacement (THR) surgery is primarily performed in medium, large and giant dogs and is a major procedure with possible complications. 

Why would an Total Hip Replacement Surgery (THR) be recommended?

Candidates for THR surgery are dogs with persistently painful hips that are not responding satisfactorily to medical management, including exercise restriction, weight control and judicious use of pain killers. Signs of hip pain include difficulty rising and jumping, stiffness, lameness, restlessness, and reluctance to exercise and play. The most common cause of hip joint pain is osteoarthritis associated with hip dysplasia. This can affect dogs as young as six months of age.

Dogs with hip dysplasia / osteoarthritis, no matter how severe, are not considered candidates for THR surgery if signs of pain and lameness are mild and readily controlled by conservative measures.

Where possible the dog should be at least 10 months of age (skeletally mature) at the time of surgery. There is no upper age limit.

What does Total Hip Replacement Surgery (THR) involve?

Cemented and cementless THRs are available. With the cemented system the artificial cup and ball are held in the pelvis and thigh bone by bone cement. With the cementless system the prostheses are secured in the bones by what is referred to as a ‘press-fit’ so that the bone in contact with the prostheses can grow into the small pores on their surface. 

Joint replacements are amongst the most challenging operations performed by veterinary orthopaedic surgeons. The operation is performed through a relatively small incision directly over the hip. Careful preparation of the hip socket and top of the thigh bone is necessary prior to placement of the relevant cemented or cementless prostheses. The two artificial components are then brought together and the stability of the hip checked.

Occasionally a sling is applied to the limb for one or two weeks to prevent weight-bearing until the sutured tissues have time to heal.

What is post surgical life like after Total Hip Replacement Surgery (THR)?

Aftercare following THR surgery is very important with rehabilitation taking many months.

Exercise must be very restricted for the first few weeks until the joint capsule and other soft tissues heal. This is the period when dislocation of the prostheses is most likely. Exercise is primarily for toileting purposes. At other times, confinement to a pen or a small room in the house is necessary with avoidance of jumping and climbing.

After a few weeks, exercise may be gradually increased in a controlled manner (still on a lead) as guided by a physiotherapist and  Hydrotherapy is typically recommended.

Clinical and radiographic examination is recommended one year following THR surgery and annually thereafter.

Post surgical rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

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The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.

Total Elbow Replacement Surgery (TER)

Condition Guide

Total Elbow Replacement Surgery (TER)

What is Total Elbow Replacement Surgery (TER)?

Total elbow replacement (TER) surgery is a rarely conducted major procedure with possible complications. It is only performed in dogs where the benefits of surgery outweigh the possible risks and where alternative methods of treatment are less successful.

Why would an Total Elbow Replacement Surgery (TER) be recommended?

Candidates for surgery are dogs with persistently painful elbows that are not responding satisfactorily to medical management. Signs of elbow pain include lameness, stiffness, restlessness and reluctance to exercise and play. The most common cause of elbow joint pain is osteoarthritis associated with elbow dysplasia.

What does Total Elbow Replacement Surgery (TER) involve?

Joint replacements are amongst the most challenging operations performed by veterinary orthopaedic surgeons.

The operations are performed through an incision over the elbow joint. Careful preparation of the three bones that make up the elbow is necessary prior to placement of the relevant prostheses. The artificial components are inserted into the joint where bone has been removed and secured in a variety of ways. 

What is post surgical life like after Total Elbow Replacement Surgery (TER)?

Aftercare following TER surgery is very important with rehabilitation taking many months. Exercise must be very restricted for the first few weeks until the joint capsule and other soft tissues heal.

Exercise is primarily for toileting purposes. At other times confinement to a pen or a small room in the house is necessary with avoidance of jumping and climbing. After a few weeks, exercise may be gradually increased in a controlled manner (still on a lead). Hydrotherapy is generally recommended.

Clinical and radiographic examination is recommended one year following TER surgery and annually thereafter.

Post surgical rehabilitation

Rehabilitation is a process which aims to maximise patient mobility and wellbeing, returning them to their usual way of life following illness, injury or surgery. We restore pets to normal function (or as close as is possible), efficiently and safely using a wide variety of physiotherapeutic techniques.

Injury and even surgery can disrupt the body’s equilibrium in all sorts of direct and indirect ways. Even a pet’s own protective responses such as the inflammatory process can overwhelm and inhibit healing so one objective of rehabilitation is to reduce this level of inflammation.  During rehabilitation, we also aim to boost the circulatory system, improve muscle function, increase range of motion within joints, and stimulate innate pain-relieving mechanisms.

With a committed and planned rehabilitation programme, pets can recover more quickly, realise better outcomes and avoid much pain and discomfort.

The best rehabilitation programmes consider the whole pet, not just the area of injury; we target and improve multiple systems throughout the body without forgetting the invaluable healing effects of boosting mental wellbeing too. From the wound healing properties of laser treatment, and the muscle strengthening of hydrotherapy, to the circulation boosting effects of massage, we will devise a rehabilitation programme to match a pet’s specific requirements.

I'm ready to get some help for my dog

Ready to get some help?

Our friendly and skilled physiotherapists are ready to help you and your dog with their rehabilitation.

Get Referred to Us

More conditions

View more conditions

The content on this page is for advice and information only and does not represent veterinary guidance or direction. Please always consult a veterinary surgeon if you are worries about your dog.