Veterinary Orthopedics: What You Need to Know

Dogs and cats are part of the family, and we know it can be stressful when they show signs of pain or discomfort. One common issue they may experience is orthopedic issues, which involve problems with your pet's bones, joints, and muscles. From limping to joint swelling, orthopedic issues can impact your pet's quality of life. At Summer Creek Animal Clinic, we're here to help you understand veterinary orthopedics and when to seek the help of an orthopedic vet specialist.

What is Veterinary Orthopedics?

Veterinary orthopedics is the branch of medicine that focuses on a pet’s skeletal system. This includes bones, joints, ligaments, muscles, and tendons. Whether your dog or cat has a broken bone, a joint disorder, or a muscle injury, an orthopedic issue can greatly affect their ability to move around and live comfortably.

Common orthopedic problems in pets include:

• Fractures: These are broken bones caused by infection, metabolic diseases, cancer or even trauma, like being hit by a car or a fall.
• Arthritis: This is a condition that leads to joint pain and stiffness, usually in older pets.
• Hip Dysplasia: This is a common problem in larger dog breeds which happens when the pet’s hip joint does not fit together properly. This can cause pain and make it hard for dogs to move.
• Cruciate Ligament Tears: Similar to ACL injuries in humans, this is a common knee injury in dogs.
• Luxating Patella: This is a condition where a pet’s kneecap slips out of place. This is often seen in smaller dog breeds.

Signs Your Pet Might Have an Orthopedic Issue

Your pet can’t always tell you that they’re in pain, so it’s important to watch for signs of discomfort. Some of the key symptoms to look out for include:

• Limping or favoring one leg
• Difficulty getting up or lying down
• Reluctance to jump, run, or climb stairs
• Swollen joints or visible deformities
• Crying or whining when touched in specific areas
• Decreased activity or lack of interest in playing

If you notice any of these signs, bringing your pet in for an evaluation is a good idea. Early diagnosis and treatment can often prevent further injury in your pet.

How Do We Diagnose Orthopedic Problems?

When you bring your pet in for an orthopedic evaluation, our veterinarians will start with a physical exam to assess their movement and identify painful areas. Sometimes, additional diagnostic tools are needed to get a clear picture of what’s going on. These may include:

• X-rays: To visualize bones and joints, and check for fractures, dislocations, or arthritis.
• CT Scans/MRI: For more detailed imaging, especially useful in diagnosing complex conditions like ligament tears or spinal issues.
• Blood Tests: To rule out underlying conditions that could be contributing to joint or bone problems.

After diagnosis, the next step is to develop a treatment plan.

Treatment Options for Orthopedic Conditions

Orthopedic treatments can vary depending on the type and severity of the issue. In some cases, rest and medication may be enough. However, other conditions might need a visit to an orthopedic veterinarian and possible surgery.

• Conservative Management: Rest, physical therapy, and anti-inflammatory medications can often help with mild conditions like arthritis or early-stage ligament issues.
• Pet Orthopedic Surgery: In more serious cases, a vet orthopedic surgeon might need to correct the problem. This could involve repairing a fracture, stabilizing a joint, or performing a joint replacement.
• Rehabilitation: Post-surgery or in cases of arthritis, rehabilitation therapy can help your pet regain mobility. This may include exercises, hydrotherapy, and other treatments to strengthen muscles and improve joint function.

When to See an Orthopedic Specialist

While our highly-trained vets can treat many orthopedic issues, some cases require a higher level of expertise. An orthopedic vet specialist typically handles complex fractures, advanced joint disorders, and specific ligament injuries.

We might refer you to an orthopedic specialist if:

• Your pet needs a specialized surgery, such as a total hip replacement or a complex fracture repair.
• Your pet has a condition that hasn’t responded to standard treatments.
• Your vet believes that advanced imaging or diagnostic techniques, like an MRI, are necessary.

Veterinary orthopedic specialists have additional training in advanced surgical techniques and often have access to specialized equipment. If your pet is referred to an orthopedic veterinary specialist, rest assured that they are in the best hands!

Vet Orthopedic Care Near You

Orthopedic problems in pets can be concerning. But, with the proper care and treatment, they'll continue to live healthy, happy lives. Whether your furry friend needs pet orthopedic surgery, rehabilitation, or ongoing pain management, we are here to support you every step of the way.

If you think your pet might have an orthopedic issue, call us at (817) 523-1139 or book an appointment online below!