Modern veterinary medicine is increasingly daring to use advanced diagnostic and rehabilitation methods similar to those used in sports medicine in humans. Physically active dogs, especially those training agility,
frisbee or canicross, are prone to specific orthopedic injuries. Therefore, it becomes crucial to know the most common injuries and how to prevent them. In this article, we will discuss the 5 most common injuries in sporting dogs, treatment methods and effective strategies for preventing health problems.

Rupture of the anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) Etiology and Pathomechanism The anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) stabilizes the knee joint, protecting it from excessive forward movement of the tibia. Rupture
of the ACL can result from sudden movements, turning or jumping, especially in dogs actively training or running on uneven terrain.
Clinical signs

• Sudden lameness of the hind limb
• Swelling within the knee joint
• Femoral muscle weakness and atrophy in advanced cases Therapeutic management
• Conservative treatment: Physiotherapy, manual therapy, anti-inflammatory pharmacotherapy
• Surgical treatment: the most effective methods are TPLO (horizontal tibial osteotomy) and TTA (tuberosity tibial advancement).
• Pharmacological and dietary support: Regular supplementation with glucosamine, chondroitin and omega-3 fatty acids(check supplements)
  Prevention
  ✅ Regular strengthening of the muscles that stabilize the knee
  ✅ Taking care of proper body weight
  ✅ Warming up before intense activity

1. Hip Dysplasia Etiology and Epidemiology
   Hip dysplasia is a chronic condition with a genetic basis, most often occurring in large and giant breeds. As a result of abnormal development of the elements of the hip joint, the joint degenerates and limits
   mobility.
   Clinical manifestations:

• Limited mobility and rigidity
• Chronic lameness
• Characteristic “swaying” of the hips during gait Therapy and treatment
• Conservative methods:Physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, manual therapy
• Pharmacological treatment:NSAIDs, supplements to support joint health
• Surgical intervention: hip endoprosthesis or pelvic osteotomy
  Prevention
  ✅ Moderate physical activity
  ✅ Diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids and antioxidants
  ✅ Avoidance of excessive stress in puppies

1. Achilles tendonitis
   Mechanism of injury
   Achilles tendon injury often results from overloading during dynamic jumping or sprinting. Dogs that train intensively are particularly prone to this type of injury.
   Clinical signs

• Lameness aggravated after exercise
• Swelling in the heel area
• Restriction of range of motion in the ankle joint
  Therapeutic management
• Conservative treatment: Activity restriction, cold compresses, anti-inflammatory pharmacotherapy
• Regenerative therapy: Laser therapy, ultrasound, treatments to promote tissue regeneration
• Reconstructive surgery: Necessary in case of complete tendon rupture
  Prevention
  ✅ Gradually increase the intensity of training
  ✅ Avoiding too rapid an increase in load
  ✅ Regular orthopedic diagnostics

1. Sprains and dislocations of joints
   Clinical manifestations

• Sudden lameness
• Swelling and soreness of the joint
• Avoiding straining the affected limb
  Prevention
  ✅ Proper warm-ups before training
  ✅ Use of joint stabilizers when training intensely

1. Muscle strains and micro-injuries

Clinical manifestations

• Stiffness after exercise
• Pain on muscle palpation
  Prevention
  ✅ Gradually increase the intensity of training
  ✅ Regular stretching and massage sessions
  
  
  Bibliography

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   Rehabilitation Review, 2023.
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   2022.
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