Luxating Patella Treatment for Dogs at Aspen Veterinary Clinic
At Aspen Veterinary Clinic, we believe that understanding your dog’s condition is the first step toward effective treatment. A luxating patella, commonly called a dislocated kneecap, is one of the most frequent orthopedic issues seen in dogs.
Without proper care, the condition can progress, causing arthritis and increasing the risk of other knee injuries. Our experienced team at Aspen Veterinary Clinic, in Flagstaff, Arizona, is here to provide advanced diagnostics, personalized treatment options, and expert surgical care when needed, so your dog can recover and return to a comfortable, active life.
What Is a Luxating Patella in Dogs?
A luxating patella occurs when the kneecap slips out of its normal position in the groove of the thighbone (femur). In most cases, luxating patella is caused by a combination of genetic and structural factors. Many dogs with this condition are born with a shallow groove in their thighbone or limb alignment issues that allow the kneecap to slip out of place.
While genetics play a significant role, trauma can also cause patellar luxation in some cases. The dislocation can be:
- The inside of the knee (medial patellar luxation, MPL): More common in small breeds like Chihuahuas, Yorkshire Terriers, Toy Poodles, and Pomeranians.
- The outside of the knee (lateral patellar luxation, LPL): More often seen in larger breeds, sometimes linked with hip dysplasia.
Luxating patella can affect one or both knees and may lead to arthritis or other knee injuries like a cranial cruciate ligament rupture over time.
Signs of Patellar Luxation in Dogs
Symptoms can vary depending on severity, but common signs include:
- A “skipping” gait where your dog briefly holds up a hind leg
- Difficulty jumping or rising
- A leg that angles outward when sitting
- Intermittent or progressive lameness
In mild cases, signs may be occasional and subtle. In more severe cases, the dislocation happens more frequently, causing pain and joint damage over time.
Diagnosis
Our veterinarians will perform a thorough orthopedic exam to grade the luxation on a scale of 1 to 4 and assess its impact on your dog’s movement. We may recommend digital X-rays to evaluate bone alignment, arthritis, or related conditions. In rare cases, CT or MRI imaging may be helpful for surgical planning.
Treatment Options
Without treatment, the kneecap may dislocate more frequently and cause joint damage.
Medical Management
Mild cases may not require surgery. Instead, we may recommend:
- Weight management
- Joint supplements
- NSAIDs for pain relief
- Exercise restriction
- Physical therapy
Medical management often takes several weeks to show improvement and may need to be repeated if flare-ups occur. Flare-ups may follow exercise or arise without an obvious cause.
Surgical Correction
Dogs with frequent dislocations or persistent lameness benefit most from surgery. Surgical options may include:
- Deepening the femoral groove so the kneecap stays in place
- Adjusting soft tissues to stabilize the kneecap
- Realigning bone structure when necessary
Surgical recovery typically takes at least 8 weeks, and follow-up visits are essential to monitor healing. Physical rehabilitation can help speed recovery and improve function and mobility.
Recovery and Management
Whether managed medically or surgically, patellar luxation requires ongoing care:
- Medical management: Improvement may take weeks; flare-ups can occur throughout life.
- Surgical recovery: Expect at least 8 weeks of restricted activity. Physical rehab and follow-up exams help ensure proper healing. Most dogs regain good stability and mobility. Outcomes are best when surgery is done before severe arthritis develops.
Why Choose Aspen Veterinary Clinic for Dog Patellar Luxation Surgery in Flagstaff?
We’re proud to be one of the few clinics in Flagstaff, AZ, with the experience and expertise to provide advanced dog orthopedic surgery, including MPL correction. Our team offers personalized care, modern surgical techniques, and a commitment to helping your dog move comfortably again.
If your dog is showing signs of a luxating patella, contact Aspen Veterinary Clinic in Flagstaff today. Let’s help your dog move with confidence again.
If you live in or near Flagstaff, AZ, and are looking for pet care, contact us at (928) 526-2423 to set an appointment. You can also email us at [email protected]. Our staff would love to talk with you!