Physiotherapy helps older dog walk after hip surgery and leg

Abstract

The current case aims to report the physiotherapy management and long-term outcomes of femoral head and neck ostectomy (FHNO) performed on a geriatric dog with pelvic-contralateral limb amputation. A 10-year-old, 36 kg mixed-breed castrated male dog with an amputated left hind limb was referred to our department for pain and lameness in the right hind limb. The dog was diagnosed with end-stage hip osteoarthritis (OA) and required an FHNO, as total hip replacement (THR) was not pursued due to financial constraints. Two weeks after the surgical intervention, the dog was still experiencing difficulty moving without support. Therefore, a physiotherapy protocol was initiated, consisting of weekly hydrotherapy sessions to promote muscle growth and strength, zonal laser therapy to manage joint pain, and systemic administration of nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), nutraceutical joint supplements, and oral cannabis oil. Hydrotherapy was associated with a 5 cm increase in thigh circumference after eight sessions, indicating improved muscle mass and strength. After two months of physiotherapy, the dog showed considerable improvement and was able to walk independently. The owner was pleased with the long-term outcome. Physiotherapy led to positive clinical outcomes, including improved muscle strength and gait, with a favorable prognosis after 14 months of follow-up. Physiotherapy should be considered in dogs with severe hip OA managed by FHNO when the contralateral pelvic limb is amputated.