ELBOW ORTHOSIS
Description
The elbow orthosis is designed to support, maintain, control, stabilize, and protect the joint. Therefore, the brace can help better control rotational and lateral instabilities. The device can also offer controlled range of motion, meaning it can limit flexion and/or extension to reduce elbow pain. In some cases, the device can realign the elbow somewhat to maintain a more functional and appropriate position, helping the animal regain a more normal gait.
Recommended in the following cases:
- Elbow dysplasia
- Hygroma: (fluid-filled swelling that typically occurs on a bony area of a dog's body, especially the elbows).
- Osteoarthritis (abnormal wear of cartilage)
- Neurological conditions
- Fractures
- Dislocation and subluxation
- Ligament injuries
- Tumors
- Promotes wound healing
- Alternative to bandages
- Elbow misalignment
- Instability and pain of the elbow joint during movement
- Etc
Example of a frequently observed pathology: Elbow dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is a hereditary disease, often bilateral, which is characterized by an abnormal development of the elbow joint, resulting in lameness, pain, joint instability, arthritis, etc. in dogs. There are other factors to consider as well, such as rapid growth, intense physical activity, as well as diet at the onset of this condition.
Treatment for dysplasia should be multimodal and ideally include weight management, joint diet, controlled physical activity, medication, physiotherapy, surgery if it’s an option, orthotics, etc.
Certain breeds are more predisposed to this condition, such as German Shepherds, Mastiffs, Saint-Bernards, and Basset Hounds.
Example of a frequently observed pathology: Elbow Hygroma
The dog’s elbow joint is made up of several components, including the synovial bursa. Located at the back of the elbow, it consists of an envelope filled with synovial fluid that acts as a protective cushion. The bursa also facilitates the sliding of the skin, tendons, the muscles over the bone. Elbow hygroma is an inflammation of the synovial bursa and it can occur in any breed of dog but is more common in large shorthaired dogs.
Hygroma can appear following a violent impact to the joint or due to repetitive minor traumas to the elbow, as observed when the dog lies down and rests on very hard surfaces, such as tiles or hardwood floors. Therefore, in some cases, the dog’s body attempts to protect the elbow joint by increasing the amount of viscous fluid present in the synovial bursa. A growth forms at the back of the elbow: this is what is called an hygroma.
To prevent elbow hygroma or its recurrence and to preserve joint health, it is suggested to avoid lying, resting, or sleeping on a hard surface and to get them used to lying instead on a cushion, a blanket, or a carpet. Another effective means of preventing hygroma is the elbow orthosis, which protects the joint from impacts and offers compression to facilitate the drainage of excess fluid that may accumulate in the synovial bursa.
Orthosis designed and manufactured by ORTHO DESIGN in interprofessional collaboration
with veterinary specialists
