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
American Bulldog
Jace
4
0 found this helpful
0 found this helpful
My dog was running on a farm last year around this time. He fell over a tree that was down, he shoulder dived into the dirt for a good 5 ft. He was limping after that, I took him to the vet but they said it seemed sprained, no x-rays were done at the time just a regular extension of the leg. He now limps after running very fast in a short time. If he had fractured his shoulder last year what should I do to help him now? And if it is ligaments what should I do?
Dec. 1, 2017
0 Recommendations
Without having x-rays, we cannot know for sure if there was any fractures or not; if the limping is due to ligament damage then rest is usually be best course of action but it depends on the severity. I would visit an Orthopaedic Specialist since these limping episode occur a year after the original injury to the leg; there are many different variables with no single correct answer for treatment. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Dec. 2, 2017
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Deutsch Draathar
Bruno
10 months
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Bruno, a 10 month old GWP, has just had surgery to repair an OCD lesion on his right humorous. The surgeon cut some ligaments to get to the defect in the joint, but he is a mon of little words. The recovery period we were expecting was 5 to 6 weeks on leash. The new instructions involve confinement for 8 weeks before starting any kind of outdoor exercise or therapy. I have a sense this surgeon is rather old book, and would like to keep Bruno's supporting muscles as fit as possible before he is finally allowed to run off leash and goes from 0 to leaping tall buildings and crushing through brush at the speed of the nearest bunny. I would like to start him on hydrotherapy and controlled folks on the lead as soon as it is reasonable to avoid him injuring himself as soon as he gets freedom. Any advice you can give me would be helpful.
Nov. 22, 2017
0 Recommendations
Whilst your Veterinarian may be old book (or old school), Bruno is under his duty of care; I cannot recommend any different time frame for Bruno without examining him first (to establish a Doctor - patient relationship). Rest is important after this surgery and the extent of the bone flaps or mice that were removed would have a bearing on the overall recovery time and time frame; consultation with a Veterinary Physiotherapist may be beneficial to ensure that Bruno keeps his muscle tone. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Nov. 22, 2017
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American Pit Bull Terrier
Rocky
2 Years
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My 2 year old pit bull mix Rocky (50lbs) has hurt his front right shoulder. We came home from a vacation where he ran around and was active. But it was after we’d been home for 2 days we noticed he started really limping.
He is still limping, he can get around and still jumps up on the couch but has less mobility. I carry him up stairs or anything that would cause strain, he’s really being babied haha.
I did a soft examination myself and it especially causes him pain when the Shoulder is pushed toward his body not necessarily away and extended. We’ve been containing him and helping him lay low.
Any idea on what it could be and how to really help him? I know nothing beats a vet visit but just not able to deal with the costs.
Thank you for your time and help!
Nov. 2, 2017
0 Recommendations
Sprains and muscle tears may occur with excitement and overactivity; I get concerned more about injury to the brachial plexus, whether it is bruising or avulsion (if he is using the limb avulsion is unlikely). In these cases as you know a visit to your Veterinarian is best along with an x-ray or two; if that isn’t an option, rest is best and look for improvement over the coming days. If you don’t see any improvement I would strongly recommend you visit a charity clinic or shelter to see if they can offer low cost examination etc… Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Nov. 2, 2017
IS THERE AN OVER THE COUNTER MEDICINE THAT I CAN GIVE TO HELP WITH THE SWELLING AND PAIN FOR NOW
June 21, 2018
Deb T.
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Border Collie Cocker
Jess
7 Years
2 found this helpful
2 found this helpful
My pet has the following symptoms:
Lameness
Hi my border collie has lameness which the vet seems to think is arthritis, she was x rayed this week and the vet said there is a little arthritis but nothing major, and is considering ct scanning her for further investigation.We are treating her with metacam daily, and it seems to be that after a few days rest where the lameness improves,it takes one awkward twist and we're back to square one in that she's lame again.I am using hot and cold pads on her, stopped exercise and medication.I am not sure at this point what we can do is there is a possibility this is tendon related? If so why wasn't this picked up by x ray?
Oct. 18, 2017
2 Recommendations
Tendons do not show up on x-rays unless they are calcified or have other pathologies, normally we settle on tendon injuries from symptoms and ruling out other conditions; an MRI will show tendons. It is possible that the cause is arthritis but without an examination and checking x-rays I cannot confirm the diagnosis. Generally, in any case rest is best whether the cause is arthritis or another musculoskeletal condition; if you have doubts or concerns, seek another opinion with a Veterinarian in your area. Regards Dr Callum Turner DVM
Oct. 18, 2017
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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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