I have a dog with what I believe is damage to the SPF (+/- DDF) to the middle two toes of the front foot (the toes are “flatter” than they should be and compared with the other foot and she is uncomfortable on extension of these toes). This has been a lameness going on for a few months. Other than extended rest, analgesics and laser I am at a loss as to what else to do for this dog. Any ideas?
J
SDF problem in dog
Re: SDF problem in dog
So, there really isn’t much to be done with SDFT/DDFT injuries, I’m afraid.
It’s curious that there is pain with extending the toes. You don’t typically see this unless there is a portion intact.
Maybe the DDF is working harder because the SDFT is absent (which is the typical flat toe culprit). OR, the loss of the tendon(s) has allowed more ‘bashing’ of the joints, and the pain is due to joint irritation / early OA.
Or perhaps the problem is also affecting / affected the sesamoids (put your finder on them to assess for pain.)
At this point, your only option is to treat for pain. Laser the toe joints, and the sesamoids (depending upon what you find).
The dog may also do well to wear some kind of padded footwear for a while to minimize the discomfort (i.e. Therapaw’s ‘cushy paws’)
Years ago I tried various taping methods. They all failed… which is why I say today that there’s not much you can do!
Sorry again for my tardy reply!
Laurie
It’s curious that there is pain with extending the toes. You don’t typically see this unless there is a portion intact.
Maybe the DDF is working harder because the SDFT is absent (which is the typical flat toe culprit). OR, the loss of the tendon(s) has allowed more ‘bashing’ of the joints, and the pain is due to joint irritation / early OA.
Or perhaps the problem is also affecting / affected the sesamoids (put your finder on them to assess for pain.)
At this point, your only option is to treat for pain. Laser the toe joints, and the sesamoids (depending upon what you find).
The dog may also do well to wear some kind of padded footwear for a while to minimize the discomfort (i.e. Therapaw’s ‘cushy paws’)
Years ago I tried various taping methods. They all failed… which is why I say today that there’s not much you can do!
Sorry again for my tardy reply!
Laurie
LAURIE EDGE-HUGHES