Carpal brace

[lehughes]

Hi Laurie,

I was wondering if I could pick your brain on a carpal brace. I have a 10 mon FS Boxer mix that came in for a consult regarding what they should do about her R carpus. When they got her from a shelter, she already had a limb and the shelter did not know any history of trauma. They had radiographs done at their r DVM and the radiologist felt there was signs of DJD. The owner says she is reluctant to use it the first thing in the am and then will work out of it. With lots of activity, her limp becomes more noticeable and she will then hold it up. Her flexion of the carpus is significantly reduced and maybe a little increase in carpal extension. When they consulted with the surgeon, he discussed arthrodesis, but recommended they try rehab first.

We discussed acupuncture, NSAIDS, joint supplements and a formal rehab program with UWT, laser and therapeutic exercises. We also discussed the use of a carpal brace. They were very interested in the brace and would like to look into more of a neoprene brace vs. a specialized brace like from Ortho-Pet. They are interested in using it more for increased activity like hiking or jogging. We have the Carpo-Flex-X by Thera-Paw.

My question is should this type of brace be okay to start with, but still consider the Ortho-Pet? Any other suggestions for them? She is only 10 months and a very active dog who likes to bounce around like a kangaroo per the owner.

Your help would be greatly appreciated.

Thank you,

CK

[lehughes]

Hi C,

Happy to add my thoughts.

So with a case like this, I think that a Carpo-Flex X brace would be a perfect first start. And I think it’s a perfect idea to use it primarily with higher activity.
Swimming, digging, and perhaps e-stim on the flexors with weight bearings would be my exercise suggestions… UWT only as a way to burn energy with reduced wt bearing… but it won’t ‘fix’ anything.
Laser and manual therapy… and radial shockwave… would be great for maintenance.
And of course joint supplements… they really should get those onboard now and forever!

But to answer your most specific question - yes, go with the neoprene Carpo-flex X as that is a great place to begin!

All the best!

Laurie