Patella Luxation

Some good articles on Patella Luxation & MEDIAL PATELLA LUXATION REPAIR (MPL)

https://www.acvs.org/small-animal/patellar-luxations

"Patellar luxation is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, diagnosed in 7% of puppies. The condition affects primarily small dogs, especially breeds such as Boston and Yorkshire terriers, Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and miniature poodles. The incidence in large breed dogs has been on the rise over the past ten years, and breeds such as Chinese Shar Pei, Flat-Coated Retrievers, Akitas, and Great Pyrenees are now considered predisposed to this disease. Patellar luxation affects both knees in half of all cases, potentially resulting in discomfort and loss of function"

"Symptoms associated with patellar luxation vary greatly with the severity of the disease. This condition may be an incidental finding detected by your veterinarian on a routine physical examination or may cause your pet to carry the affected limb up all the time. Most dogs affected by this disease will suddenly carry the limb up for a few steps (“skip”), and may be seen shaking or extending the leg prior to regaining its full use. As the disease progresses in duration and severity, this lameness becomes more frequent and eventually becomes continuous. In young puppies with severe medial patellar luxation, the rear legs often present a “bow-legged” appearance that worsens with growth. Large breed dogs with lateral patellar luxation may have a “knocked-in knee” appearance."

"Over time, the knee cap may dislocate more and more often out of its groove, eroding cartilage and eventually exposing areas of bone which leads to arthritis and associated pain. Other structures in the knee may become more strained, potentially predisposing to a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament. In puppies, the abnormal alignment of the patella may also lead to serious deformation of the leg."

https://riverbendveterinary.com/orthopedic-procedures/mpl-pet-orthopedic-surgeon

"What is an MPL Surgery?MPL surgery is aimed at correcting a luxating patella in the knee. This condition is more typically seen in smaller and toy breed sized dogs. A luxating patella happens when the knee cap slips in and out of its groove. A “skipping” gait is typically the result."

"PHYSICAL THERAPY EXERCISES

Sit-stand

Have dog sit then call it so it stands and comes to you. Repeat 10 times twice daily.

Figure 8 walks

Circle to left and to the right 10 times twice daily.

Dancing

Lift front legs off the ground and “dance” with your dog by holding him there gently for about 30 seconds. Do this a few times a day.Uneven surface walking

Have the dog walk over a wobbly surface back and forth 10-15 times twice daily. Good surfaces like this can include a thick foam mattress, an air mattress, a bunch of blankets, a line of pillows etc.

Swimming

Swimming is great physical therapy for dogs. If you have swim therapy be sure to take advantage of it as much as you can."