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      Amidala - Bilateral carpal hyperextension

      Meet Amidala, an 8-year-old Alaskan malamute

      Alaskan malamute dog in the field

      PATIENT

      Amidala
      Age: 8 years
      Sex: Female
      Weight: 45 kg
      Medical condition: Bilateral carpal hyperextension

       

       

       

      MEDICAL EXAMINATION

      Based on the symptoms described, it seems that the patient may be experiencing some degree of musculoskeletal pain and discomfort, particularly after engaging in extended periods of physical activity such as long distance walking. The patient's tendency to turn around and go home when experiencing these symptoms suggests that they may be impacting their quality of life and limiting their ability to engage in activities they enjoy.

      There are several potential causes of these symptoms, including overuse or strain of muscles and joints, under- lying medical conditions such as arthritis or fibromyalgia, or poor posture or body mechanics during physical activity. To determine the underlying cause of the patient's symptoms, a thorough medical evaluation by a healthcare provider may be necessary, including a physical examination, medical history, and possibly imaging or laboratory tests.

      Depending on the underlying cause, treatment options may include rest and physical therapy to improve muscle strength and flexibility, pain management medications, lifestyle modifications such as weight loss or changes to physical activity levels, or in some cases, surgical intervention.

      DIAGNOSIS

      Bilateral carpal hyperextension.

      RECOMMENDATIONS

      Weight reduction was recommended, and the patient was not eligible for arthrodesis due to contraindications related to their poor general condition. Orthopedic supplies, in the form of a carpal orthosis, as well as a special harness, were recommended to assist the owner with lifting the animal.

      MEDICATION

      Recommendations from the treating physician are to administer NSAIDS when there are signs of severe pain.

      THERAPY

      The dog used wrist orthoses during everyday walks while maintaining psychological wrist flexion angles. Also follows a diet tailored to the condition that allows for weight loss

      Watch Amidala's video case study: 

       

      CONCLUSIONS/RESULTS

      After four months of using the orthoses, the angles of wrist hyperextension in both of the patient's wrists remained the same. However, the owner reported a reduction of using NSAIDs, also the length of their walks increased.