Case Studies

Libby, a four-year-old Rottweiler, has severe musculoskeletal problems. She has severe arthritis in both elbows and the right stifle (knee).

Years ago Libby had surgery on her right elbow to repair a broken bone and she had stifle surgery to repair a torn ligament. Libby’s family brought her to West Hills Animal Hospital for a rehabilitation exam because she was having difficulty walking. Her right front leg was painful and she limped noticeably.

Upon examination, Libby was found to be lame on the right front and right rear legs; there was muscle atrophy in the rear leg; both elbows had poor flexibility and were tender to the touch; both hips had poor flexibility; there was arthritis in the right stifle; both shoulders were tender; and several muscles were tight and had knots in them. When an animal has arthritis and/or pain in one or more joints, they are likely to develop painful complications elsewhere in their body. In an effort to protect the arthritic joints, they will hold their body in an abnormal posture, thus putting strain on other bones, joints, and muscles. Libby clearly demonstrated that phenomenon.

Libby was given an individualized exercise plan designed to promote flexibility in her arthritic joints and strengthen the weakened muscles. She was prescribed medication and three dietary supplements to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and protect and nourish her joints. Her right elbow received five treatments of therapeutic ultrasound in our hospital over a one-month period. We instructed her family on how to give her physical rehabilitation therapy at home including hot and/or cold packs when needed, massage, stretching, and joint mobilizations.

Upon completing her two-month rehabilitation at West Hills Animal Hospital, Libby was no longer limping and was happily able to rejoin her family for their daily 45-minute walks. She had regained strength in her rear leg, her muscles were relaxed, and her joints were pain-free. Her entire body was more comfortable.

Although Libby has completed her care at West Hills Animal Hospital, her family continues to follow her exercise plan and performs her treatments at home as needed.