Anna Spangler
Marketing Director & Co-Owner
The Patient
Penny is a 1-year-old Doberman pinscher with 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, bilateral flexion contracture, and scoliosis.
Diagnostic History: 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. Bilateral flexion contracture can be permanent due to structural change in a dog’s body, so a customized treatment method was really needed for Penny to maintain mobility. Weekly hydrotherapy and chiropractic sessions helped, but she needed more support.
Her veterinarian recommended custom carpal braces. Our experts 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 break down. Curved blades were affixed to the bottom of the braces instead of our standard rubber sole to lift Penny to the correct height and even out her spine in addition to addressing the bilateral flexion contractures. The blades are lightweight and give the added benefit of some spring to her step.
Follow-Ups: 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.
Contact us to learn more about the custom process we use to make each brace, for flexion contractures, CCL tears, and more. We’re proud to offer high-quality custom-made dog braces that help pets have a higher quality of life.