Cruciate Ligament Damage 

Cruciate ligament damage occurs when there is a full rupture (complete break) or tearing of one of the cruciate ligaments. This can result in four types of sprain; from a minor tear or stretch to a complete tear of the ligament. It is a painful condition and a qualified vet would need to identify the level of damage that has occurred.

Initial treatment for this condition would be surgery in the form of TPLO in most cases. Massage may then be used following surgery to assist with recovery and muscular health.

Symptoms

Cruciate ligament damage occurs when there is a full rupture (complete
break) or tearing of one of the cruciate ligaments. This can result in four
types of sprain; from a minor tear or stretch to a complete tear of the
ligament. It is a painful condition and a qualified vet would need to identify
the level of damage that has occurred.
 

Initial treatment for this condition would be surgery in the form of TPLO
in most cases. Massage may then be used following surgery to assist with recovery and muscular health.

 

Symptoms
 

• Inflammation around site
• Vocalised pain
• Fluid retention at site
• Lameness
• Toe touching at rest/stand
• Muscle wastage
• Reluctance to exercise
• Reluctance to straighten leg

 

Benefits of massage

 

• Reduces pain
• Releases tightness from overcompensation on the other limbs
• Strengthens affected legs muscles
• Reduces swelling
• Helps the dog to become mobile again
• Speeds recovery time
• Helps the dog to feel more comfortable during recovery
• Encourages normal weight distribution
• Increases natural range of movement