Page 5 - Clinical Connections Autumn 2015
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RVC Clinical Connections Autumn 2015 5
Police dog back at work thanks to holistic approach
A police dog has been able to return to his duties thanks to the intervention of the RVC’s pioneering sports medicine, osteoarthritis and pain clinic.
The clinic, based at the Queen Mother Hospital for Animals (QMHA), offers a holistic approach to the assessment and treatment of patients with degenerative joint disease and injuries sustained in activity, bringing together specialists in anaesthesia and analgesia, orthopaedics, rehabilitation and physiotherapy.
Rather than be passed from specialist to specialist, the
clinic’s
multidisciplinary
be caused by acute trauma, repetitive stress, autoimmune disease, drug reaction, infection or neurological and vascular disorders.
Diagnostic imaging performed at the QMHA (MRI and ultrasound) confirmed the presence of a fibrotic band in the inner part of the gracilis muscle that was creating a muscle bulge, palpable in the inner thigh. Although surgical treatment with complete excision of the gracilis muscle could be performed, leading to temporary resolution of the lameness, it is common that the lameness recurs between three and five months after
working dogs can remain active. Commenting on Trooper’s treatment
and progress, clinic head Pilar Lafuente, a recognised specialist in both small animal surgery and canine sports medicine and rehabilitation, said: “Trooper received daily sessions of warm packs, massage, passive range of motion exercises and stretching. Initially, therapeutic ultrasound was applied to his contracted muscle three times a week. His rehabilitation programme was modified according to his progression, including hydrotherapy sessions using an underwater treadmill twice a week, and more active exercises – such as Cavaletti poles.
“Four months later, his muscle mass had improved and his abnormal gait was less obvious, although still present. This is not a painful condition, so his activity level was progressively increased and some work activities progressively introduced.Trooper has been able to return to his work duties, although maintenance rehabilitation will be required.”
For RVC Small Animal Referrals contact details please see the back cover
approach ensures
patients get the
prompt,
individualised care
necessary for them
to return to their
usual activities as quickly as possible.
As a general purpose police dog, Trooper participates in searches, chases and protection. He is required to be able to run and jump 9ft long jumps, among other challenging movements.
Six weeks prior to presentation to the clinic,Trooper stumbled and yelped in pain. He appeared to be lame on his right hindlimb, holding it up. Subsequent observation found an abnormal gait in that limb, with a shorter step and sticking the hock out while the paw was in the air. A tight band could also be felt in the inner part of his thigh that prevented the stifle from extending completely.This is the typical gait of gracilis muscle myopathy / contracture, which has predilection for active German shepherd dogs between three and seven years
of age.
The cause of this myopathy is
unknown, although it is thought it could
surgery due to fibrosis of other muscles in the hamstrings.
Therefore a long-term
rehabilitation programme, including exercise
restriction, therapeutic ultrasound therapy, manual therapy and a home therapeutic exercise programme were recommended for Trooper. Although it is, unfortunately, uncommon for rehabilitation therapy to completely resolve clinical signs, with continued rehabilitation therapy and dedication,
Clinic team members Chris Seymour, Emily Chowderoy and Pilar Lafuente
Police dog Trooper with Emily Cowderoy, veterinary physiotherapist
