Gait and electromyographic alterations due to early onset of injury and eventual rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament in dogs: A pilot study

Abstract

Objective: Identify relevant electromyography (EMG), kinematic, and kinetic changes resulting from monopolar radiofrequency energy (MRFE)-induced cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) injury and eventual rupture in dogs. Study design: Experimental, repeated measures. Animals: Five purpose-bred female dogs free of orthopedic and neurologic disease. Methods: Surface EMG, joint kinematics, and ground reaction forces were assessed at a trot in the pelvic limbs at baseline, at 2 and 4 weeks after unilateral MRFE-induced CCL injury, and at 4, 8, and 16 weeks after CCL rupture (CCLR). Results: After MRFE-induced injury, average hip joint range of motion (ROM) during stance decreased within the untreated pelvic limb. After CCLR, stifle flexion angles decreased within the treated limb at 8 weeks and within the untreated pelvic limb at all time points, whereas average tarsal joint ROM decreased in the treated limb and increased in the untreated limb. Peak vertical ground reaction force and impulse decreased within the treated limb. Qualitative alterations of many EMG values were noted after MRFE-induced injury and CCLR, although significant differences between limbs or from baseline values were not detected. Conclusion: Monopolar radiofrequency energy-induced injury altered contralateral hip kinematics, suggesting early regional compensatory gait alterations. After CCLR, additional compensatory gait patterns occurred in both pelvic limbs. Clinical impact: The qualitative analysis of trial-averaged EMG data in this small population supports a relationship between neuromuscular function and induced CCL injury leading to rupture.

Effect of center of rotation of angulation‐based leveling osteotomy on ex vivo stifle joint stability following cranial cruciate ligament transection and medial meniscal release with and without a hamstring load

“…All loads in this model were applied directly and constantly throughout the joint angle range, although muscle loading in vivo involves complex patterns of co‐contraction with constantly varying loads and ratios, which were beyond the scope of this study. Although electromyography (EMG) data exist for some of the relevant muscles, 35 muscle forces do not always correlate well with EMG activity, being dependent on whether contraction is concentric, isometric, or eccentric 36 . However, the loads applied were sufficient to cause CTT and to demonstrate the positive effects of hamstring muscle activity on stifle stability.…”

Non-invasive methods to assess muscle function in dogs: A scoping review

“…A positive outcome for orthopaedic disorders is dependent on optimal return to normal muscle function. One of the most common orthopaedic disorders causing lameness in dogs is cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCLD) ( 1 – 5 ). In CCLD, the function of the skeletal muscles is particularly challenged, as the normal stabilising synergism between the large muscles around the canine stifle joint and the cruciate ligaments is disrupted ( 1 ).…”

“…One of the most common orthopaedic disorders causing lameness in dogs is cranial cruciate ligament disease (CCLD) ( 1 – 5 ). In CCLD, the function of the skeletal muscles is particularly challenged, as the normal stabilising synergism between the large muscles around the canine stifle joint and the cruciate ligaments is disrupted ( 1 ). It has been found that the extension and flexion angles of surgically treated CCLD stifles are inferior to healthy joints, and that the active range of motion is impaired in the surgically treated limb at long-term assessment ( 6 ).…”

The Penn Vet Working Dog Center Fit to Work Program: A Formalized Method for Assessing and Developing Foundational Canine Physical Fitness

“…Dogs naturally bear approximately two thirds of their weight on their forelimbs; thus, representing the brunt of musculoskeletal development and engagement during normal physical activity (3,4). The uneven distribution of weight along with common hip and spinal anomalies may impact muscle development and maintenance of the hindlimbs and core, predisposing these areas to injury or degenerative changes during moderate and vigorous activities encountered in the majority of working dog careers (5)(6)(7). Development of a dog's musculoskeletal system in the optimal biomechanical alignment through whole body proprioception, muscle stability and strength of the core, forelimbs, and hindlimbs, and mobility may decrease a dog's susceptibility to, the severity of, or the recovery time for an injury.…”