I have a 4 year old male Boxer. Luca was recently diagnosed with an ACL injury to his right hind leg. My vet has referred me to a orthopedic surgeon. I would like to avoid surgery if possible. Can anyone out there recommend an alternative to surgery?
Hello John,
Welcome to our community and great to have another Boxer lover! Sorry to hear about Luca and his ACL. I do not know personally of any remedies to do to help in this situation outside of surgery. Is there a reason that you prefer not to have surgery?
I will try to find some more information on the topic and see what I can find out for you.
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Andy…
Webmaster
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Hi John~
Welcome to our Dog Lovers Community as well! First, I am sorry to hear about Luca, that sounds like a horrible infliction for you and him to have to go through. You and Luca will be in our prayers. :angel:
I have tried to look up some research on “Alternative Medicanes” for ACL surgeries. However, I must state we are not certified Vets and the best route for you to go would be to discuss alternative options over with your Vet or an Orthepedic Surgeon for Luca’s condition.
As you have requested, I have found 2 different articles relating to ACL Injuries, one is an “Alternative” method, and the second is information and general cost of ACL Surgeries. Hope this helps, and again, we are not medical experts, but are here for support for you and Luca at anytime. Please keep us updated on his progression and we hope to hear of him running and kidney beaning around again real soon!!!
Alternative
I had a very positive experience with an alternative treatment for helping to heal my dog’s torn ACL (anterior cruciate ligament) which is at the knee of the rear leg. This natural approach worked very well for almost 4 years after Maggie Mae’s injury. Maggie was a mixed breed — half Golden Retriever and half Black Labrador Retriever. Please note: I am not saying that what worked for Maggie will work in every instance of a torn ACL. As I understand it, there are varying degrees in severity and surgery may be the only option. Some dogs healed while their legs were in ‘hip-to-toe casts’ for many weeks. If surgery is indicated, it would be wise to consult with a knowledgeable veterinarian who has a good deal of experience and expertise in performing the operation.
Read rest of article at http://www.itsfortheanimals.com/ACL.HTM
Surgery Option~
Anterior Cruciate Ligament (ACL)
A tear in any of the ligaments of the stifle (knee) joint causes instability in the knee. Each time an afflicted dog walks or runs, its knee sustains more damage until degenerative joint disease occurs. If left untreated, the strain on the opposite limb often results in ligament ruptures there as well. ACL injuries are the most common cause of hind limb lameness. Ligament rupture can occur from traumatic injury in younger dogs, but it usually occurs in dogs seven years old and up.
Many surgical techniques are available to correct this problem, but whatever procedure is used the goal is to stabilize the stifle joint. ACL surgery, which can cost anywhere from $250 to $800, has an 85%-95% success rate. Dogs that undergo the procedure must be confined for six to twelve weeks following the surgery, while exercise is gradually increased to strengthen the joint.
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Ali….
PawMaster
DogGroups.com
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I agree with Ali Ask your vet about other options and if they wont talk about it…Try talking to another vet about it…Please keep us updated…I wish I could offer more advise but have never been through this…I feel for you and your family including your boxer baby…You will be in our thoughts…
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* For To Be Free Is Not Merely To Cast Off One’s Chains, But To Live In A Way That Respects And Enhances The Freedom Of Others———-Nelson Mandela *
Hi John~
I was just curious, if you have decided on anything specific for Luca and her ACL Surgery? Have you found a better alternative to surgery at this point? Please keep us updated on how she is doing.
Thanks
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Ali….
PawMaster
DogGroups.com
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http://www.doggroups.com
Hello John and Welcome to the boards.
How is Luca progressing? I understand you wanting to explore other options, but, I will caution you that some “Holistec” therapies are actually dangerous to the dog. I would strongly urge that you talk to your vet about alternative options but, surgery may be the way to go. I would also suggest maybe starting Luca on some Joint Therapy supplements, as this could lead to Bone Disease. Please let us know what you decide and how your furkid is doing.
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Shellie Bailey
Greenleaf Kennels
“Home of the Working Golden”