Anna Spangler
Marketing Director & Co-Owner
Patient: Penny is a 1-year-old Doberman pinscher
Diagnosis: Bilateral forelimb flexion contractures
Type Of Device: Non-jointed carpal braces with curved blades
Case Report: Penny was born a normal, healthy puppy. At about five months old, she began having difficulties walking. Her carpals were contracting and she could not extend her limbs, which resulted in her walking on the top of her wrists. Her family consulted several veterinarians and specialists for a diagnosis. It was determined that Penny has cervical lesions and scoliosis.
At home, Penny needed to be carried outside for potty breaks and wasn’t able to go for walks. She was getting sores on her wrists. She overcompensated by shifting her weight to her rear legs which affected her spine. Her spine was starting to curve. Weekly hydrotherapy and chiropractic sessions helped, but she needed more support.
Her veterinarian recommended custom carpal braces. We evaluated Penny and took a cast of both of her front legs in her contracted position. Custom carpal braces were fabricated. Additional padding was included on the inside of the brace to ensure her skin didn’t breakdown. Curved blades were affixed to the bottom of the braces instead of our standard rubber sole to lift Penny to the correct height, evening out her spine. The blades are lightweight and added the benefit of some spring to her step.
Penny was fitted with her braces in October of 2021. After some hesitant first few steps, Penny adapted to her braces quickly. She wears her braces for walks and bathroom breaks. They enable her to live an almost normal lifestyle. Penny continues with weekly therapy sessions. Her family, veterinarian and rehabilitation team are extremely pleased with her progress and her ability to walk and play, despite her diagnosis. She still has the heart of a puppy and is excited to move like one with the help of her braces.