Surgery Alternatives: How Does a Dog Knee Brace Work?
How knee braces work to recover or support arthritis, joint injuries, and ligament injuries in canines.
One of the most common injuries experienced by dogs is an injury to their knee, making it the leading cause for orthopedic surgery in canines. Out of all the possible knee injuries in dogs, Cranial Cruciate Ligament (CCL) injuries are the most common cause of hind end lameness in canines. Additionally, there is a 70% chance of injury to the contralateral leg, and about 40% of dogs with Luxating Patella experienced concurrent cruciate rupture.
Dog knee braces are an alternative to support the healing of a CCL injury or to prevent further damage pre- and post-operative. The CCL connects the dog’s tibia to its femur using connective tissue to stabilize the knee; like an Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL) found in humans. There are several degrees of injury that can occur to the CCL – ranging anywhere from a partial tear to a full rupture.
How Does a Knee Brace Work?
Balto Jump – Knee Brace: The Balto Jump uses splints on the medial and lateral aspects of the knee. The splints help correct any drawer movement. Drawer movement is an abnormal movement forward of the tibia (lower leg bone). This movement indicates laxity in the joint. By using these splints and additional compression, this brace helps support and partially immobilize the knee during recovery.
Balto Ligatek – Adjustable Hinged Knee Brace:The Balto Ligatek uses adjustable, hinged splints to offer full immobilization or a controlled range of motion (ROM) of the knee. This brace is specifically good for pre- and post-surgical support or as a surgical alternative. This brace can also be used during rehabilitation. Allowing the knee to have a gradual return to movement after an injury or surgical procedure has occurred is key to a successful recovery.