Luxating patella or slipping kneecap is when the patella dislocates outside of its normal stabilising trochlea groove, when the knee is flexed.

There are 4 Grades of Patella Luxation:

Grade I: Patella can be manipulated in and out of the groove but returns to its normal position.

Grade II: Patella rides out of the groove occasionally and can be replaced in the groove by manipulation.

Grade III: Patella rides out of its groove most of the time but can be replaced in the groove by manipulation.

Grade IV: Patella rides out of its groove all the time and cannot be replaced inside the groove.

*Surgery is most often considered in grades 2 and over.

Causes:

LP occurs when the depression on the front of the femur does not provide a suitable ridge in which the patella sits, therefore it luxates.

• Breed predisposition

• Activities of daily living e.g. a dog who lives on laminate floor

• Persistent standing on back legs

• Trauma

• Patellar ligament may be too long

• Malformation of the femur or tibia

• Tightness/atrophy of the quadriceps (acting as a bowstring)

Symptoms:

• Pain

• Lameness

• ‘Clicking’ around the knee

• Hop, Hop, Skip gait

• Lameness

• Stiffness

• Altered gait e.g. walks in crouched position, unable to straighten affected leg

How massage can help:

Massage can really help dogs with Grade I luxating patella and may even result in a dog not needing surgery.

• Improves comfort and reduces pain

• Improves mobility

• Addresses areas of protective muscle splinting

• Improves gait and activity levels

• Helps a return to normal, sensible exercise