Spring 2025 Canine Forelimb Lameness Workshop

Canine Forelimb Lameness 101 : Step-by-step Approach in Your Practice

Diagnosing and treating forelimb conditions in dogs can be very challenging. Many dogs present with a similar history including minimal responsive to rest, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, and increased lameness following exercise and heavy activity. 

It can be difficult to localize the lesion on palpation as many dogs may show increased sensitivity in the shoulder and elbow from referred pain and compensation. To further challenge the veterinarian, it is common for diagnostics such as radiology to be within normal limits due to the soft tissue nature of these injuries (tendon, ligament, and cartilage). 

Fortunately, with the availability of advanced diagnostics such as musculoskeletal ultrasound and needle-scope arthroscopy the definitive diagnosis can be determined and an appropriate treatment plan created.