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In human medicine, physical therapy is highly recommended after undergoing an orthopedic surgery such as an ACL reconstruction. Research shows that postoperative rehabilitation is necessary for shortened recovery time and return to full function. The same is true for dog's that have surgery for an ACL/CCL injury.
The most common reason for canine orthopedic surgery is damage to the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in the dog’s knee joint. This ligament is the canine equivalent of the human ACL, which functions to stabilize the knee joint and ensure proper mobility. In humans and dogs, ACL/CCL tears can result in pain, instability, limited mobility, and lameness.
ACL/CCL injuries are more common in dogs than in humans. Human ACL injuries are usually associated with serious trauma to the knee, while canine knee injuries often have a slower onset. The ligaments in dogs’ knees naturally degenerate faster than in humans and can be a result of multiple factors. Thus, even in the absence of a specific injury or trauma, your dog may experience tearing of the CCL.
Other injuries can also affect the knee, including patellar luxation and meniscus tears, and CANINE PHYSICAL THERAPY can help resolve them all!
