Fixes for CCL (ACL) injuries in dogs

In the recent past, we’re seeing and hearing more and more about CCL (ACL) injuries. In fact, it’s estimated that in recent years Americans spend on average $1.3 billion per year to repair their dog’s CCLs. The injury and accompanying surgery are becoming common place. Why is this and what’s causing these injuries?

The cranial cruciate ligament is one of the important stabilizers in the knee joint. Most sudden CCL injuries in dogs happen during exuberant activities, such as roughhousing, running, playing, jumping, etc. CCL injuries are particularly common in canine athletes - dogs that compete in agility, dock diving, Frisbee catching and more.

Chronic damage develops over time and can be caused by poor neuromuscular coordination, conformational abnormalities, repetitive injury, or poor muscle tone. Obesity can contribute to chronic ligament damage as well, because it puts excessive stress and weight on the knee joint. New research indicates a couple of possibilities for the rise in CCL tears that were never before considered.

• Early spay or neuter (before the growth plates close) because it creates conformational abnormalities.

• A genetic component much like hip dysplasia.

Unfortunately, there is no fool-proof way to prevent injuries in dogs. Keeping your dog lean and in great shape seems to be the best approach. Dogs that are in poor physical condition or are overweight are at the greatest risk of injury while healthy, well-conditioned dogs are better able to avoid injuries, because their joints are protected by strong muscles.

While CCL surgery may be necessary, new research suggests that conservative management and rehabilitation through exercise (particularly warm water swimming) is a viable alternative to surgery especially for partial CCL tears. Advocates of conservative management recommend trying non-surgical techniques for eight weeks to see if symptoms improve. If they do, odds favor a non-surgical recovery.

If surgery becomes necessary, there are several options and it’s best to do your homework before making a decision. The newer procedures are quite invasive and the research doesn’t prove these procedures help the knee any more than less invasive procedures. If you choose surgery, once the veterinarian gives clearance, rehabilitation via swimming has been shown to speed recovery.

While you may not be able to stop a CCL tear, improving your dog's physical condition will help prevent this and other injuries, and give your dog a better quality of life as he ages.

@@Sherri Cappabianca, an expert in the field of canine health and fitness, is the author of two books on canine health, and the co-owner of Rocky’s Retreat Canine Health & Fitness Center, and Barking Dog Fitness, a Gym for Dogs, both located in Orlando. For more information, visit rockysretreat.com or barkingdogfitness.com@@