Re: Tarsal hyperextension in Bernese Mtn Dog

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Hi ne.I think that this group had a discussion (maybe years ago) about hyperextension/instability of the tarsal joint in Bernese Mountain Dogs.  I've seen a fair share in my practice and most (if not all) had hip issues as well.My concern always with bracing/splinting a distal joint is that this immobilization will put more stress on proximal joints.  There must be stability (anatomical and dynamic, through appropriate core muscle strength) proximally for tolerance of distal immobilization without adverse risks.  Another concern is the age of the pup.  If you do decide to splint (I might do something more dynamic/flexible or focus on strengthening for active stabilization first), definitely make sure that it's got some mobility/flexibility.Amie Amie Lamoreaux Hesbach, MSPT, CCRP, CCRTDirector of RehabilitationNext Step Animal Rehabilitation & FitnessThe Mid-Atlantic Animal Specialty Hospital (MASH)Huntingtown, land, USAwww.vetmash.comOwnerFor Paws Rehabilitation, LLCwww.forpawsrehabilitation.comFaculty MemberThe Canine Rehabilitation InstituteWellington, FloridaSnowmass, Coloradowww.caninerehabinstitute.comPresidentAnimal Physical Therapy Special Interest GroupOrthopaedic SectionAmerican Physical Therapy Association (APTA)www.orthopt.orgwww.apta.org Hello everyone,                 I recently saw a 4 month old bernese mountain dog puppy with severe tarsal hyperextension on both hind limbs. He travels actually quite well and comfortably despite this deformity. There is a mild reluctance to extend the hips but no notable discomfort. The owner will be getting radiographs of the hips this week , but I believe regardless of the findings the tarsal problem is not associated with the hips. The dog has been fittes with comfortable braces that hold the tarsus well and he tolerates them without a problem. My question to everyone is, Is there any other suggestions besides the braces to prevent further degeneration of the joint. Short of an arthrodesis is ther any techniques to strengthen this joint and prevent hyperextension. This is a very large male puppy, whose father was 110 lbs. He is on Solid gold adult food and vegetables. This has seemingly slowed his growth down. He is very happy and active. Thanks for your input. neSee what's new at AOL.com and Make AOL Your Homepage.