Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Acquired muscle contractures in the dog and cat. A review of the literature and case report.
- Journal:
- Veterinary and comparative orthopaedics and traumatology : V.C.O.T
- Year:
- 2007
- Authors:
- Taylor, J & Tangner, C H
- Affiliation:
- Garden State Veterinary Specialists · United States
Plain-English summary
Muscle contractures in dogs and cats can happen when certain muscles tighten up, often after some kind of injury or trauma that occurred weeks or months earlier. Pets with this condition may show signs like limping, pain, weakness, less ability to move their limbs, a hard feeling in the affected muscle, and a unique way of walking. Factors that can lead to muscle contractures include things like infections, trauma, repetitive strain, and certain diseases. Generally, dogs and cats with contractures in their front legs tend to respond better to treatment than those with contractures in their back legs. Overall, the outcome can vary based on the specific muscle affected and the treatment provided.
Abstract
Canine and feline muscle contracture is reported to affect several different muscles, is associated with a number of predisposing factors, and a varying prognosis depending upon which muscle is affected. Most patients suffer some form of trauma weeks to months before the contracture is present. The clinical signs include: lameness, pain, weakness, decreased range of motion, a firmness noted throughout the entire muscle, and usually a characteristic gait. Pre-disposing factors for muscle contracture include: compartment syndrome, infection, trauma, repetitive strains, fractures, infectious diseases, immune-mediated diseases, neoplasia, and ischaemia. There does appear to be some breed and age predilection, however, the sex of the animal does not have an appreciable influence. In general, muscle contractures of the forelimb respond better to treatment and carry a better prognosis than muscle contractures of the hindlimb.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/17546206/