Helping your dog with
Fracture Repair Recovery
So your dog has fractured a bone, ouchy! Unless in very special circumstances, the chances are they've had it surgically fixed. The bone takes time to heal and relies on them using it to get the bone to form and harden. Depending on their injury, they might have damaged soft tissue structures such as muscle, tendon or ligament too which we will rehabilitate concurrently.
Fracture Repair Overview
Signs of Fractures
This will be pretty self explanatory as your dog will show a sudden lameness and not want to weight-bear on the affected limb. They are likely to be in a great deal of pain and not want to be touched nearby. In unfortunate cases, some fractures displace and break through the skin barrier, so you may see broken skin, blood and exposed bone.
Causes of Fractures
There is usually an identified time where a traumatic event caused the fracture - this can be linked to things like RTA's or falling from a cliff. Sometimes they are linked to other pathologies that need to be diagnosed and treated alongside the fracture repair.
Treatment of Fractures
The vast majority of fractures are treated with surgical intervention. This is vital to stabilise the fracture and avoid further displacement and potential amputation. By stabilising the fracture the bones are fixed in the best possible position to knit back together by forming new bone. Over time and with appropriate, progressive exercise the bone will be as strong as before.
What can we do about it?
Plenty! We have numerous modalities in clinic that we have at our finger tips to help your dog. These include massage, soft tissue mobilisation, stretching, joint mobilisations, targeted exercises, laser therapy, hydrotherapy... shall we continue? These have all been shown to reduce pain, restore joint and muscle function and strength, and improve your dog's quality of life. With each session they undergo constant review of their clinical signs and progression in order to gain maximum recovery at a pace that's comfortable for them.
We have a comprehensive programme tailored for your dog's specific needs, depending on the type of surgery, how successful the surgery was and their recovery so far. Alongside what we do with your beloved pooch, there are a number of things outside of the clinic that can help them manage their condition or rehabilitation. Please find information in the sections below!
Home Modifications
Flooring
Wooden floors and stairs are a big slip hazard for your dog. Try using non-slip mats along the main routes of your house. Alternatively, some dogs may benefit from paw pads (please speak to us before trying this option in case of contraindication).
Feeding Stations
Raising their water and food bowls may seem like a insignificant change to us, but it can really help your dog to be in a more neutral position.
Access to Furniture
Jumping up and down from heights if often a cause of additional pain for your dog. If they enjoy a cuddle on the sofa or the bed, make it easier for them with dog-friendly steps or ramps onto furniture. This also applies to getting in / out of cars! You may also find a sling to be useful.
Keeping Warm
Especially important in the colder months, your dog will benefit from staying warmer. Keep them in a jumper and walk them out with coats. Stay dry too!
Sleeping / Resting Areas
Great quality sleep is essential. Ensure their sleeping area is free from any drafts and in a warm spot. Their bedding should be supportive and not restrictive. Memory foam mattresses without rigid or tall sides are best. Make sure your dog can access the bed and can change position / stretch out easily.
Be Wary of Terrain
Different types of terrain in the garden and on walks can be hazardous, such as steep slopes, loose or uneven surfaces. Be mindful to where they are going.