A patella luxation in a dog, also known as kneecap dislocation, is a common orthopedic condition. This problem can range from mild to severe and causes pain and mobility problems in your faithful four-legged friend. In this blog, we discuss the causes, symptoms and treatment options for the condition, as well as practical tips to improve your pet’s quality of life.

What is a patella luxation?

If your pet is dealing with patellar luxation, the quadruped suffers from a condition of the kneecap. This involves the kneecap (the patella) shooting out of its normal position in the groove of the femur. Knee problems in dogs can cause the animal to suffer from pain, lameness and an abnormality in walking.

There are four grades of the condition. It can be mild, grade 1, in which the kneecap occasionally pops out of the groove and returns on its own. It can also be severe, grade 4, in which the kneecap stays out of the groove permanently and does not return on its own.

What age does a patella luxation occur in a dog?

The condition can occur at different ages. However, it is often first noticed when the animal is still young, between 4 months and 1 year old. If the condition takes a milder form, it may also not be noticed until later in life. Patella luxation in a dog is hereditary and is more common in certain breeds.

How do you recognize a patella luxation in a dog?

The symptoms of the condition open widely. The age of the animal and the gradation of the condition play a big factor. Here’s how to recognize about it the condition:

• Lameness: the animal may (sometimes) walk lame, especially after running or playing;
• Hinks: the critter may sometimes suddenly start limping or lift a leg while walking;
• Signs of pain: the quadruped may show signs of pain, such as licking the knee or suddenly starting to whine;
• Skip steps: it may appear as if a step is skipped and the leg remains bent;
• Irregular gait: the critter may walk at an irregular pace;
• Swelling; in some cases there is swelling around the knee;
• Reduced activity: the quadruped may no longer be active and, for example, no longer want to run or jump.

How do I know if my dog has patella?

To know if your pet has a kneecap condition, it is important to analyze your four-legged friend’s behavior. Based on the symptoms above, see if he or she is also exhibiting these behaviors. If you think your pet is dealing with this condition, consult a veterinarian. It is important to note that the condition is more common in small breeds, but it can also occur in larger breeds.

Does a patellar luxation hurt?

Patella luxation in a dog can be painful. The degree of pain depends on the degree of the condition. Some people think they should put a dog with patella luxation to sleep, but this is often not the case. With the right treatment plan, much can be done to reduce pain and treat the condition.

What to do about a patella luxation in my dog? 7 tips

If you think your four-legged friend is dealing with this condition, it is important to do something about it. We give you tips on how to diagnose the condition and what you can do to treat it.

1. Visit a veterinarian

Consultation with veterinarian

If the condition is suspected, it is important to consult with a specialist. The doctor can determine the severity of the condition.

X-rays

Request x-rays for an accurate diagnosis and to detect any additional problems.

2. Medication and weight management

Medication

Certain medications or painkillers may be prescribed. This is often not to treat the condition, but to reduce pain and inflammation.

Supplements

Use supplements such as glucosamine or chondroitin to support joints.

Weight Management

Make sure the animal maintains a healthy weight to avoid stressing the joints. Use a special diet if necessary and provide regular but gentle exercise.

3. Movement and physical therapy

Limited movement

Avoid intense activities. For example, don’t let the critter climb stairs or jump off the couch too much. It is also important not to run too much.

Physiotherapy

When a dog has a patella luxation, physical therapy can be very helpful. With this, it is possible to strengthen the muscles around the knees.

Hydrotherapy

For the recovery of patella luxation in a dog, the use of hydrotherapy. This involves the use of swimming as a non-stressful exercise.

4. Surgical options.

Surgery patella luxation dog

In severe cases, surgery may be necessary. Some people choose not to operate on the animal, then it may be necessary to take many other measures such as physical therapy or low level laser therapy as an adjunct.

Postoperative care

Provide good aftercare after surgery with pain management and proper rehabilitation. Be calm and kind to the critter.

5. Home modifications

Stairs

Use special steps to avoid jumping. For example, put a stepladder by the couch or by the bed.

Comfortable sleeping place

Provide a soft sleeping area where the animal can lie comfortably. This is because the body needs extra relaxation and comfort to prevent or relieve pain.

6. Complementary therapies

Red light therapy

Use red light therapy to reduce pain and promote healing. Later in this article, we’re going to tell you more about what red light therapy can do for your beloved pet.

7. Preventive measures

Regular checks

Visit your veterinarian regularly to monitor the condition of the joints.

Knee problems in dogs and low level laser therapy

Low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is a good treatment for your dog’s patella luxation. Laser therapy is also a good treatment method for other complaints.

What exactly does laser therapy do?

Low-level laser therapy uses low levels of laser light to stimulate cellular processes. This can help relieve pain and symptoms. Here’s why laser therapy can work for your four-legged friend:

• Pain relief;
• Anti-inflammatory effect;
• Better blood flow;
• Accelerated recovery.

Is there science behind red light therapy?

The use of low level laser therapy, also called red light therapy, is scientifically proven. This therapy uses laser devices with a special frequency of low-level laser light energy. This light creates interactions with the tissues in your dog’s body. This reduces pain, swelling, inflammation and various conditions. This therapy can be used in both humans and animals.

What can PowerCure do for your four-legged friend?

The PowerCure laser has already helped many animals reduce pain, complaints and conditions. Thus, we have received many good experiences from pets and their owners. The cost of laser therapy in dogs is also often less than what you have to pay for other treatment methods.

You can purchase the PowerCure (Pro) laser yourself for home use. So you can treat your beloved four-legged friend yourself in their familiar place. And the laser is not only useful for your pet, but it can also be a great tool for yourself, your roommates and even horses. And it can be used for almost any complaint!

Want to learn more about the PowerCure (Pro) laser and what it can help you with? Then especially take a look here.