Tendon injuries are very common in our canine friends. Most of these injuries involve the shoulder, particularly the biceps and the tendon of the supraspinatus muscle, which helps stabilize the shoulder joint. There’s also a condition called medial shoulder syndrome (MSS) in which the shoulder joint becomes painful due to the injury to the supporting tissues, often leading to lameness and instability.
Injuries to the Achilles tendon (which runs from the calf muscles to the heel bone in a dog’s back legs) and patella (kneecap) tendon are also fairly common.
Fusion’s Dr. Dycus is a highly regarded expert in treating tendon issues in dogs. As a testament to his expertise, he is frequently asked to lecture on this topic and has published numerous articles about soft-tissue orthopedic injuries of the shoulder.
Chronic tendon injuries are referred to as tendinopathies. They’re usually due to repetitive motion which causes microdamage to the tendon over time, leading to the development of scar tissue.
Fortunately, many tendon injuries can be treated conservatively. Only the more severe or non-responsive cases require surgery.
Treatment for tendon injuries varies depending on the specific diagnosis, but in most situations platelet rich plasma (PRP) and extracorporeal shockwave (ECSWT) will be administered in a series of 3 treatments every 2 weeks. An 8- to 12-week period of rest and relaxation is also required; this means no running, jumping, or playing during this time.
Another important aspect of treatment is physical rehabilitation starting after the PRP and ECSWT treatments. Rehabilitation involves once- to twice-weekly rehab sessions along with at-home exercises. We see quicker healing, retention of muscle mass and range of motion, and superior long-term outcomes in patients that undergo formal rehabilitation. What’s more, rehabilitation provides a carefully managed way for your dog to expend energy so they maintain some physical activity while healing.
If your dog has sustained a tendon injury and you or your primary care veterinarian would like Fusion to evaluate their condition and develop a treatment plan, please schedule a consultation by calling 301.778.7781 or request an appointment online.
Copyright © 2025 Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics.
All Rights Reserved.
Copyright © 2025 Fusion Veterinary Orthopedics. All Rights Reserved.
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