Luxating Patella

Luxating patella refers to the dislocation (luxation) of the kneecap (patella). This condition is graded from 1 to 4, one being minor and unlikely to need surgical intervention, and four being the most severe. Lower grade luxating patellas are generally well managed with conservative therapies to build the musculature around the stifle joint to reduce the likeliness of the kneecap luxating. Even when the patella does luxate in these lower grades, it normally returns to position on its own. Higher grades of luxating patella need manipulation to return the patella to its appropriate position and so is more difficult for the dog to deal with in everyday life without surgical intervention.

Hydrotherapy will be of benefit with or without surgical intervention as you dog will likely be using their hind limbs unevenly if affected by a condition like this, and the key is to build equal muscle mass and strength, to help heal the affected limb and also prevent any compensatory issues.