Subtle signs indicative of an orthopedic issue

According to David Dycus, DVM, MS, CCRP, DACVS-SA, a few signs that may indicate a soft tissue type injury are often noticed when veterinarians are manipulating the dog and recognize areas of tension, spasm, or resistance rather than joints with a fluid-like feel.

“There shouldn’t be any fighting or resistance for us to manipulate and if we encounter tension or resistance, that needs to be a red flag that perhaps something is going on,” Dycus emphasized in a recent dvm360^® interview.

He then noted some additional subtle signs to look out for during the orthopedic examination involving a dog’s body language and history.

“[Veterinary professionals] can also look at the body language of the dog. If the dog happens to be panting and then holds their breath or starts licking their lips or maybe looks around or, your technician says, ‘Hey, they’re kind of leaning into me, they’re trying to get away from [me],' those can be subtle hints that you’re hitting an area that’s causing some discomfort," explained Dycus.

“The other thing is from the history. Many times we’re thinking about dogs being lame all the time, but some of the very subtleties are going to be stiffness upon rising or after heavy play…we really shouldn’t blow those signs off especially in very young dogs," he added.

Watch the full video below for more of Dycus's expert input on the topic.