Luxating Patella: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
A luxating patella, also known as a “slipped kneecap,” is a common orthopedic condition that can affect dogs of all sizes and breeds. This condition occurs when the kneecap (patella) dislocates or moves out of its normal position in the groove of the thigh bone (femur). Understanding the causes, symptoms, and treatment options for luxating patella is essential for dog owners to ensure their furry friends live a comfortable and active life.Causes
Luxating patella is typically a congenital condition, meaning it’s present at birth. It can result from various factors, including:- Genetics: Certain breeds are more prone to luxating patella, including small and toy breeds like Chihuahuas, Pomeranians, and Yorkshire Terriers.
- Malformed Groove: Some dogs may have an abnormal groove in their femur, making it easier for the patella to slip out of place.
- Muscle Weakness: Weak or underdeveloped thigh muscles can contribute to the condition as they don’t adequately support the kneecap.
- Trauma: In some cases, an injury or trauma can lead to a luxating patella, even in dogs without a congenital predisposition.
Symptoms
The symptoms of a luxating patella can vary in severity and may come and go. Common signs to watch for include:- Limping: Your dog may suddenly start limping or favoring one of their rear legs.
- Intermittent Lameness: Some dogs may only show symptoms intermittently, and the kneecap may return to its normal position on its own.
- Pain: Your dog may experience pain when the patella slips out of place or when it’s manipulated back into position.
- Difficulty Extending the Leg: Dogs with a luxating patella may have difficulty fully extending their leg, especially after the kneecap has dislocated.
- Skipping or Hopping: You may notice your dog occasionally hopping or skipping while walking or running.
- Inactivity: Dogs with a severe luxating patella may become less active due to pain and discomfort.
Treatment
The treatment of a luxating patella depends on its severity and the impact it has on your dog’s quality of life. Here are the primary treatment options:- Conservative Management: In mild cases or when symptoms are infrequent, conservative management may be sufficient. This includes managing your dog’s weight to reduce stress on the knees, providing joint supplements, and regular exercise to strengthen thigh muscles.
- Medication: Non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can help manage pain and inflammation associated with a luxating patella. However, these are typically used in conjunction with other treatments.
- Physical Therapy: Physical therapy and exercises prescribed by a veterinary rehabilitation specialist can help strengthen the muscles supporting the knee joint.
- Orthopedic Braces: In some cases, a custom-fitted orthopedic brace may help stabilize the knee joint and prevent luxations.
- Surgical Intervention: Severe or recurrent cases often require surgical correction. There are several surgical techniques available, depending on the specific issue:
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- Trochleoplasty: This procedure deepens the groove in the femur to better hold the patella in place.
- Tibial Tuberosity Transposition (TTT or TTA): In this surgery, the attachment of the patellar tendon is repositioned to keep the patella in its normal groove.
- Lateral Patella Luxation Repair: When the patella consistently luxates to the outside of the knee, this procedure realigns the structures to prevent further dislocation.
- Medial Patella Luxation Repair: For patella luxation to the inside of the knee, this surgery corrects the alignment.