What is it?
Tendons and ligaments are connective tissues that support normal joint function:
- Tendons attach muscle to bone and transmit force to create movement.
- Ligaments connect bone to bone and provide joint stability.
When these structures are overstretched, partially torn or ruptured, the joint becomes unstable or painful. Healing can be slow due to limited blood supply, particularly in tendon tissue.
Common injuries include:
- Partial cruciate ligament tears
- Collateral ligament injuries
- Achilles (calcaneal) tendon strain or rupture
- Biceps tendon injury
- Carpal or tarsal ligament sprains
Clinical signs & changes
Signs depend on severity and location, but may include:
- Lameness (intermittent or persistent)
- Swelling around a joint
- Pain on palpation
- Reduced range of motion
- Reluctance to bear weight
- Reduced performance or stamina
- Subtle gait asymmetry
In partial tears, signs may fluctuate, making early detection challenging.
Veterinary diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves:
- Orthopaedic examination
- Joint stability testing
- Ultrasound imaging (for tendon assessment)
- Radiographs to rule out bone involvement
- MRI in complex cases
Management may include:
- Strict rest in acute phases
- Anti-inflammatory medication
- Surgical repair in complete ruptures
- Controlled return-to-exercise protocols
Physiotherapy is vital once veterinary stabilisation has occurred.
Physiotherapy input
Rehabilitation is critical to promote appropriate tissue healing and prevent chronic instability.
A structured physiotherapy programme may include:
- Controlled loading progression
- Targeted strengthening exercises
- Proprioceptive retraining
- Range-of-motion work
- Gradual return-to-function planning
- Pain management modalities (e.g., therapeutic laser, manual therapy)
Careful progression is essential — too much load too early can delay healing or increase re-injury risk.
Prognosis and long term management
Preventative strategies include:
- Structured warm-up routines
- Progressive conditioning programmes
- Maintaining ideal body condition
- Strengthening supporting musculature
- Surface awareness and environmental modifications
- Ongoing monitoring in sporting dogs
Appropriate rehabilitation significantly reduces the likelihood of recurrence.