Lateral Digital Flexor Tendinopathy in a Mixed Breed Dog
A 5-year-old female spayed mixed breed dog was presented to Cornell University's Sports Medicine and Rehabilitation service for evaluation of a clu·onic progressive left hind limb lameness. Physical exam revealed a thickening in the region of the deep digital flexor, and radiographs revealed a calcified body on the caudal aspect of the tibia in the same region. Ultrasound confomed a lateral digital flexor tendinopathy associated with the calcified body. Surgical exploration was elected and the bony spur impinging the tendon was removed. Histopathology indicated a juxta-articular/periarticular chondroma. Tendon injuries can be difficult to manage due to relatively slow healing and repair. Resolution of the underlying cause is often key. Platelet rich plasma (PRP), cryotherapy, and physical therapy techniques such as eccentric loading and passive range of motion were used to optimize the postoperative healing environment and accelerate return to function. At the 2 and 4- week recheck appointments the patient was doing well at home and showing no gait abnormalities.