Tendon and Ligament Injuries in Pets: Causes, Treatment, and Recovery
Tendon and ligament injuries are among the most common musculoskeletal issues in pets, often causing pain, reduced mobility, and long recovery times. These injuries can result from trauma, overuse, or degenerative conditions, making proper diagnosis and rehabilitation essential for a full recovery. Understanding how these injuries occur and how physiotherapy aids in healing can help pet owners make informed decisions about their pet’s care.
Understanding Tendon and Ligament Injuries
Tendons and ligaments play a crucial role in movement and stability. Tendons connect muscles to bones, enabling motion, while ligaments connect bones to other bones, providing joint stability. When these structures are damaged, pets may experience limping, swelling, stiffness, and discomfort.
Common injuries include:
Cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) tears – Similar to ACL injuries in humans, this condition affects the knee joint and is common in active and overweight dogs.
Achilles tendon injuries – This can occur due to trauma or degenerative changes, often affecting sporting or aging dogs.
Supraspinatus tendinopathy – A chronic overuse injury in the shoulder that is particularly common in active dogs.
Collateral ligament injuries – These affect the stability of joints such as the elbow and carpus and are usually due to excessive force or trauma.
Causes and Risk Factors
Tendon and ligament injuries can happen due to sudden trauma, such as jumping awkwardly, slipping, or rough play. However, chronic overuse, poor conditioning, and age-related degeneration also contribute significantly to these injuries. Active breeds, overweight pets, and those with underlying joint issues are at a higher risk.
Treatment Approaches
Veterinary intervention is necessary to diagnose the severity of the injury through clinical exams and imaging. Treatment typically includes:
Rest and immobilization – Essential to prevent further damage and promote healing.
Pain management – Through medications or alternative therapies like laser therapy.
Surgery – Recommended in severe cases, particularly for complete ligament ruptures.
The Role of Physiotherapy in Recovery
Physiotherapy is an essential component of rehabilitation for tendon and ligament injuries, promoting healing while preventing long-term mobility issues.
Controlled exercise programs – Strengthening exercises restore function and prevent muscle atrophy.
Hydrotherapy – Reduces strain on injured limbs while allowing movement.
Manual therapy and massage – Improves circulation and relieves tension in surrounding muscles.
Laser therapy – Enhances tissue repair and reduces pain and inflammation.
At C.A.R.E., we create tailored physiotherapy plans to help pets recover faster and regain strength safely. Whether your pet has suffered a minor strain or a major ligament tear, our rehabilitation programs can make a significant difference in their quality of life.
If your pet is struggling with an injury, contact C.A.R.E. today to book a consultation and start their recovery journey!