Discussion related to the musculoskeletal system - injuries, post-op, lameness, extremity issues (joint, muscle, tenon, fascia...), axial skeleton issues, etc., as it relates to canine rehabilitation.
This question came into my inbox from a dog owner... just sharing it here:
Hi Laurie,
I came across your blog post from 2016 about a "run" on Sesamoids. https://fourleg.com/Blog/255/index.php
We have an 8-month old hound mix who likely fractured one of her Sesamoids in the right front paw.
I was wondering what the outcome was for the two dogs from 2016? Did they heal just from wearing lots of padding (like cushy-paw)?
Our Orthopedist suggested an elbow-to-paw splint for 4 weeks and then 4 week additional rest, but I'm wondering if we should try Cushy-paws or a similar strategy for a few weeks instead.
Thanks very much for any feedback you could share!
Okay… so I actually had to re-read the blog. I remember 3 of the 4 dogs clearly… and I’m a bit fuzzy on remembering the 4th.
However, I can answer your question. Yes, healing occurred with just padding… and restricted activity of course as well.
I understand where the Orthopedist is coming from… take weight bearing away completely… which would work as well, but would cause a lot of grief for you guys and for a growing dog. That being said, I suppose you need to take into account how ‘controlled’ you could your dog to be. That will be key no matter what you choose.
In my head a full elbow to paw splint would be ‘over-kill’ - especially if the design they are looking at has a foot part that still allows for weight bearing… because now you have no padding and abnormal weight bearing. Yes, likely less weight bearing…
(6 to one 1/2 dozen to the other, perhaps!)
How’s this... If it were my dog, I’d go with padding and very diligent controlled activity. No walking without the boot / padding - even in the house. If unsupervised, you’ll need to kennel the dog so that she won’t eat / destroy the boot (or full brace).
The time frame is likely wise to abide by. However, given her age, she’ll likely heal a bit faster. That being said, her feet will take a ‘pounding’ no matter what… so best to err on the side of caution, and prepare yourself for 8 weeks of rest.
