Luxating Patella is also referred to as a dislocated kneecap. It is a common orthopedic condition that affects wagging tails, especially the smaller breeds. This happens when the kneecap, which is a small bone triangular in shape slides into a groove on the thighbone and slips from its original place. Resulting in pain, and lameness, making your furry companion feel very uneasy.

Are you a dog parent and want to know more about this bone condition? Read the blog to understand what it is, its signs, and ways to cure it.

What Is It?

When your dog has a healthy knee, the kneecap or patella functions in the way it is supposed to. Like a train does on the railway track. But, with a luxating patella, the groove happens to be shallower, forcing the kneecap to pop out sideways. The bone condition can occur in gaps or constantly as well.

What Are The Common Causes?

The common causes of Luxating Patella are as follows:

Some Vulnerable Breeds

It is not necessary that some breeds get this knee dislocation at a certain age as a few are already vulnerable, having the condition in their genes. Which are those dogs? These are Pomerians, Chihuahuas, and Yorkshire Terriers.

Trauma

Apart from genetic factors, their kneecap can also get dislocated due to some traumatic injury in the past.

What Are Some Signs?

As a worried dog owner, we understand you would be curious to learn about the signs, so you can look after your pet. Hence, those are as follows:

Limping Style

You might watch your dog walk in a limping style. What is that? It is where your dog lifts their hind leg and then continues to walk normally.

Lameness

The knee dislocation can result in lameness. However, the degree can vary from being mild to pretty severe.

Pain

Your dog might bark to let you know that the kneecap dislocation is hurting it while walking. Therefore, avoid making it walk too much.

Bulge Visibility

You might be able to feel a bulge or see it as well when your dog moves to eat or sleep. That can give you another hint that your dog’s kneecap is out of place.

Ways To Treat Luxating Patella

Luxating Patella can be treated in the following ways:

Mild Cases

If the knee-joint dislocation is mild, then the vet will likely ask you to control your dog’s weight, take them for physical therapy, and give some painkillers.

Moderate to Severe Cases

If the case has reached the stage of severity, then you might be recommended to go for surgery. The methods may include trochlear groove deepening, thigh muscle release, and tibial crest transposition.

If you think your dog has this knee joint condition, then approach Blue Sky Vet. Their vets will help your dog ahead.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Luxating Patella a painful condition?

The pain depends on the severity of the condition. In mild cases, there might be no issues, but beyond that needs your attention.

Can I prevent the condition in my dog?

If your dog’s breed is in the category of the already vulnerable ones, then you cannot prevent it. But, you can still prevent it through a healthy diet.