Cruciate Ligament Injuries

Dog's have two cruciate ligaments that cross over in each stifle joint (knee) on the hind limbs. These ligaments are key in providing stability to the stifle joint when flexing and extending, so when one suffers an injury, it is very painful and very difficult to repair. Crucaite ligament injuries are typically handled surgically, however depending on severity and circumstances of the dog they can be managed conservatively. In both these cases hydrotherapy is key to encouraging gentle weight bearing on the afflicted limb, building muscle mass and strength in the joint, and encouraging the use of both hind limbs evenly, as there is a chance that a second cruciate injury could occur on the contralateral leg after one has occurred.