CONDITIONS
Cruciate
CRUCIATE
Overview
Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) disease is one of the most common orthopedic conditions in dogs, leading to knee instability, pain, and lameness. It most often results from ligament degeneration, eventually causing a partial or complete rupture. Acute injuries lead to sudden limping, while chronic cases may present as intermittent lameness, which over time progresses to arthritis and long-term joint dysfunction. Surgery is often recommended based on factors such as patient size, age, and overall health. Conservative management is typically reserved for small or elderly patients where surgery may not be ideal.
The most common surgical procedures include:
TPLO (Tibial Plateau Levelling Osteotomy): Alters the joint angle to provide stability without relying on the ligament.
Extracapsular Repair: Uses a synthetic band to mimic the ligaments function and stabilise the joint.
How we at BARC treat this condition
Rehabilitation is essential in both conservative and post-surgical cases to restore function, improve mobility, and support recovery. A well-structured rehab program helps guide patients from restricted activity to a gradual return to full function, while addressing any compensatory issues that may arise. Tailored exercise plans, hydrotherapy, and therapeutic modalities such as extracorporeal shockwave (soundwave) therapy, level 4 laser therapy, ultrasound, and manual therapies all work together to reduce pain, promote healing, and improve joint health. Rehabilitation offers significant benefits for both patients and owners, helping ensure a smoother recovery and enhancing overall quality of life.
