Dogs tear ligaments in their stifles, otherwise known as the knees. The most common ligament injured is called the cranial cruciate ligament. In people, the equivalent ligament is the anterior cruciate ligament or ACL. Occasionally, the cranial cruciate ligament is injured after a pet abruptly changes direction while exercising/running. Most commonly, however, this ligament slowly degenerates. … [Read more…]
This morning as I was driving home from my own acupuncture appointment for an orthopedic issue, I realized it’s been some time since I posted information about orthopedic conditions in dogs and cats. The musculoskeletal system is so important, so this week I’m sharing some tidbits about an inflammatory cartilage condition called osteochondritis dissecans (also … [Read more…]
If you’ve read some of my previous blogs, you know I believe the two most important diagnostic tests veterinarians perform do not involve collecting blood or urine samples. They’re basic. They’re the first tests veterinarians learn in veterinary school. What are they? These quintessential tests are obtaining a thorough patient history and performing a complete … [Read more…]