What are Shoulder and Joint Ligament and Tendon Conditions?
Ligaments and tendons both support the many bones of the dog’s body. Many people think of the terms “ligament” and “tendon” simultaneously; however, there is a difference between the two. A ligament is a strong band of tissue that connects cartilage or bones at any joint. A tendon is a strong band of tissue that attaches any muscle to a bone. The shoulder of a dog (and the other four-legged animals) has bones attached by ligaments and tendons. These bones that make up the ball-and-socket joint of the shoulder are called the scapula and humerus. The scapula is sometimes referred to as the shoulder blade, and the humerus is often called the upper leg bone. These bones, and the muscles and tendons that attach, are vital to a dog’s well-being and his ability to walk and run with ease.
It is difficult to see your dog in any pain, especially if it inhibits him from walking or running normally. Shoulder conditions are very treatable with a variety of options, so any pain your dog may be in is usually only temporary.
Shoulder joint ligament and tendon conditions in dogs are common painful conditions that can be treated, usually with success. If you feel your dog is in pain in the shoulder area, it is best to consult your veterinarian promptly to get an accurate diagnosis and mode of treatment.
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Symptoms of Shoulder and Joint Ligament and Tendon Conditions in Dogs
- The dog usually has difficulty getting up from a resting position, difficulty walking without a limp, or is continuously in pain.
- He may seem fine one minute and the next minute shows lameness – as if a shoulder just goes out of place.
- He may suddenly fall when walking, or avoid walking altogether.
- He might likely have swelling around the shoulder area and may whine or whimper, especially when it is touched or when he is walking (or getting up).
- He will probably forgo steps or jumping up on his favorite couch and may choose to lie down in a comfortable spot.
- His head and body weight may appear to be kept on one side more than the other side, as he is favoring the affected shoulder area. Some dogs 'hip hike' and 'head bob'.
- The dog may also seem depressed, lethargic, and may also just want to be left alone for a while.
- Some dogs become irritable and aggressive due to the discomfort.
Causes of Shoulder and Joint Ligament and Tendon Conditions in Dogs
Sometimes dogs suffer from shoulder joint conditions due to several issues with the ligaments and tendons. These can range from mild pain where a dog has a little difficulty getting around, to serious pain that inhibits walking. Three to seven years of age is usually when these disorders begin to develop, and without treatment, can become worse over time. There are different reasons for shoulder joint dysfunction, and different alternatives for treatment. Most causes stem from repeated overexertion or overextending the shoulder, which puts stress on the muscles and tendons in that area. Older dogs and overweight dogs are more apt to getting shoulder joint ligament and tendon conditions, and athletic dogs who run, participate in agility training and competitions, or hunt are also susceptible to shoulder ailments.
Types
Biceps Brachii Tenosynovitis
This common shoulder issue usually develops over time. It is caused by inflamed tendons of the muscle of the biceps brachii and the sheath that is in front of the shoulder blade. Medium to large dogs that are athletic are susceptible to this condition, since repetitive use and injuries of the tendons cause this disorder. Also, older dogs can develop this condition if they are not used to running or jumping and suddenly do so, thus injuring the bicep tendon.
Supraspinatus Insertionopathy
The tendon of the supraspinatus muscle is attached to the front section of the forelimb’s humerus bone, and enables the shoulder joint to extend. Repeated, harsh hyperflexion of the shoulder from extreme exercise or hunting can cause supraspinatus insertionopathy. The tendon becomes torn or strained, and calcium deposits (mineralization) can form after this tendon becomes overly inflamed. These calcifications can cause lameness and pain in some dogs.
Infraspinatus Muscle Contracture
The infraspinatus muscle is very close to the front shoulder and severe conditions, such as injury, usually only occur to dogs that are very athletic. When dogs are not properly conditioned and suddenly overwork the muscle, injury can occur that sometimes can be quite debilitating. The reason for this is the scar tissue that can form after a tear or severe strain can limit the extension of the shoulder joint.
Diagnosis of Shoulder and Joint Ligament and Tendon Conditions in Dogs
When you bring your dog to the veterinarian, be prepared to relay all of the signs of lameness or pain that you have noticed in your pet. Note the onset of symptoms, and any behavioral changes you may be seeing your furry family member display.
After the initial physical examination, your veterinarian will do x-rays, an ultrasound, a CT scan, an MRI, or draw fluid from the joint that is inflamed. Once the veterinarian gives you the diagnosis, she will give you treatment options. Although there are several different causes of shoulder joint ligament and tendon ailments, treatment is very similar for each one. The most important thing you can do, along with properly treating your dog, is to be sure to acknowledge new and unusual symptoms and not hesitate to take him to the veterinarian if you feel he is in too much pain.
Treatment of Shoulder and Joint Ligament and Tendon Conditions in Dogs
Lots of rest may be required, and the veterinarian will probably suggest hot or cold packs throughout the day to help with pain. She may prescribe anti-inflammatory medication and pain relief as well. Your veterinary caregiver may suggest investing in a ramp for any stairs your dog faces as he leaves the house to go outside, keeping him off full flights of steps altogether. You may need to rearrange your living situation a bit by keeping him on one floor of the house and blocking off any stairs. Purchasing an orthopaedic bed to allow for less stress on him as he is resting or getting up from a resting position may be a good investment, too. There is a chance your veterinarian may suggest you try these types of treatments and consider surgery as a last-resort option.
If you have an overweight dog or a dog that is usually not active, it is important to avoid sudden runs and rough play if this is not part of his regular routine. This can prevent any shoulder injury. If your companion has the symptoms of a shoulder injury, it is important to not take him on walks or runs and to just encourage rest.
In severe cases where the shoulder injury greatly impacts the dog’s lifestyle and well-being, your veterinarian may suggest the option of surgery. This may occur if the tests show severe damage to the tendon or if the dog is not healing properly after a few weeks.
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Recovery of Shoulder and Joint Ligament and Tendon Conditions in Dogs
Everyday observations of your loved one and just being aware of your dog’s behaviors can keep you proactive rather than reactive in this type of condition. Getting him the help he needs as soon as the symptoms appear will help him heal faster and quite possibly avoid any future compounding injuries that could lead to a surgical procedure.
Remember that your veterinarian will give you the proper diagnosis and best advice when dealing with a shoulder injury (or any injury or health concern), so it is vital that you take the dog to the clinic at the first sign of any odd behaviors or symptoms. If surgery is required, for example due to chronic lameness and pain, or non resolution of symptoms, recovery will require limited exercise and leash walking only for a period of a month to two months, depending on the severity of the injury and the extent of the surgery.
Shoulder and Joint Ligament and Tendon Conditions Average Cost
From 367 quotes ranging from $500 - $3,500
Average Cost
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Shoulder and Joint Ligament and Tendon Conditions Questions and Advice from Veterinary Professionals
Labrador
Hunter
5 Days
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Lame
My Labrador had an accident 2 Year’s ago where he severed an artery in his front leg which he by some miracle survived. Since then my dog “Hunter” has continually had lame issues I believe he may have ligament damage.
The vet in the past when I have explained his on going problems after walking every time just suggests he takes pills for a week which doesn’t help as nothing changes.
Are u able to suggest any other method to help him ?
Hunter will be 5 in October.
Any input will be greatly appreciated.
July 12, 2018
0 Recommendations
Without examining Hunter thoroughly it is difficult to determine whether there are any other signs of injury, sometimes after a severe injury like this there may be ongoing discomfort due to nerve damage or other issues. If you’re not happy with the response from your Veterinarian, you should visit another Veterinarian for an examination or see an Orthopaedic Specialist for their input. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
July 12, 2018
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American Staffordshire Terrier
dog
10 Years
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Swelling,
my ten year old american staffordshire pulled a muscle in her right shoulder and never complains of pain, except now. i've ice packed it then alternate heat, but what can i give her over the counter for inflammation?
June 21, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
Most OTC pain/anti-inflammatory medications can be harmful for dogs, and there really aren't any safe human medications for long term use in dogs. I can't recommend anything without examining her, regardless. If she is painful, it would probably be best to have her seen by a veterinarian who can examine her and prescribe an appropriate medication. I hope that she is okay.
June 21, 2018
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Boerboel
Cloë
3 Years
2 found this helpful
2 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Limping
We have a Boerboel, 3 years old, very fit and healthy, not overweight. Enjoys running. She started limping a month ago. We took her to the vet. Seems left shoulder has injury. Vet cannot say for sure what is wrong. She got injection and anti-infl pills. Also put her on Glucosamine and Chondroitin powder. She said we should monitor the dog. She is still limping after 3 weeks. I see the label on the tub of powder says it takes 6 weeks to see the difference. Should we wait or rather go for x-rays? How long does a shoulder injury take to heal? We walk her, but mainly on grass.
April 30, 2018
2 Recommendations
It can take a few weeks for the benefits of supplements to show an effect, you should continue to monitor Cloe in the meantime; as for exercise you should be keeping her well rested and only taking her outside on a lead to do her business and then straight back into the house. It is difficult to say how long it would take to heal because it depends on what the specific issue is and the type of tissue (bone, ligament, tendon, muscle etc…) affected. If you want to have an x-ray to rule out certain conditions, it would be beneficial; you should discuss with your Veterinarian. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
April 30, 2018
Thanks so much for the response!
We took her to the vet again, another vet. He examined her very thoroughly, but could not find anything wrong. She does not show any feeling of pain when she is examined. The problem is also, late in the day, she will not be limping. She limps worst early in the morning after sleeping on her bed. This morning when we took her for a walk, she was limping very very bad. So we walked slowly. As we walked, her limping got less and disappeared totally. She walked faster - we always keep to a pace where she does not limp at all. I jogged with her up to a month ago, and she just wants to run again, she loves the running. I am not going to run with her until the limp is totally gone. So when we take her to the vet, there is no limping. The vet said that he thinks we can wait with the x-rays. He thinks it is something like a sport injury. He gave more pills. I just wish I knew why she limps so bad when waking up in the mornings and why she can walk it out. I do not want to be irresponsible, I do not want to cause more damage. I do not know how long I should wait, I know from own experience that a sport injury can take a while to heal, but are we sure it is just that? We want to keep her still, but she loves chasing after birds and just running around like crazy in the back yard. For the last week I kept her in the house to limit her running around, but it seems it did not really help, she still limps like always. I hate it when she has pain and I feel powerless...
May 1, 2018
Cloë's Owner
Exactly the same problem with our 9 year old Boerboel. No pain when examined - no pain after exercise, only limping for a couple of steps in the mornings or after lying down for an hour or so during cold weather. Some days no limping at all. He does not do well with anaesthetic, so x-rays etc. is not really an option at the moment. Very athletic dog . I know it is difficult to keep these dogs quiet for extended periods of time, but it seems to be the only thing that helps along with very mild and limited exercise. I expect it to take months to get better , if ever.
Aug. 30, 2018
Lente H.
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English Springer Spaniel
Bailey
9 Months
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0 found this helpful
My 9 month old springer was trampled by a pony 2.5 months ago and has been left with an intermittent limp on the right. I took her straight to the vet and it was felt this was a shoulder sprain and prescribed a 10 day course of metacam with 10 day rest as much as poss and only walking on the lead. The limbing gradually got better until it pretty much went away. Then recently he spent a day at the local kennels and slept on the cold concrete floor waiting for me by the gate - the limping has returned. I'm worried it could be a ligament tear so am thinking of getting an MRI scan. If a tear is diagnosed, would the only option be surgery and if so any idea of approx cost? I've been quote £2,000 for the MRI, but would like a rough idea of the cost of the surgery. Many thanks,
April 12, 2018
Answered by Dr. Michele K. DVM
0 Recommendations
An MRI would be the definitive test to determine the extent of Bailey's injury. As far as cost of surgery, it depends on the injury, and varies by region. Since I have no way of knowing these things, it would be best to consult with a surgeon once you have the MRI, as they will know more what type of surgery is necessary, and will be able to give you a cost estimate.
April 13, 2018
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Shoulder and Joint Ligament and Tendon Conditions Average Cost
From 367 quotes ranging from $500 - $3,500
Average Cost
$1,800
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Easily compare quotes from the most trusted pet insurance companies in the United States.
