Cruciate ligament disease or injury

 

Cruciate ligament disease refers to damage or rupture of the cranial cruciate ligament within the knee (stifle) joint. This ligament plays a key role in stabilising the joint during movement. In the Cane Corso, cruciate injury may occur as a sudden traumatic event or develop gradually due to ligament degeneration. Left unmanaged, it can lead to pain, instability, and progressive arthritis.

Ligament 2.jpg
Ligament 1.jpg

 

    • Sudden or intermittent hindlimb lameness

    • Difficulty rising, sitting, or climbing stairs

    • Reduced weight-bearing on the affected leg

    • Stiffness after rest

    • Swelling around the knee joint

    • Muscle loss in the affected limb over time

    • Reduced willingness to exercise or play

    In some cases, dogs may compensate initially, masking the severity of the injury.

  • Treatment depends on the dog’s size, activity level, severity of the injury, and overall health.

    • Conservative management

      • Strict exercise restriction

      • Weight management

      • Pain relief and anti-inflammatory medication as prescribed

      • Physiotherapy and rehabilitation support

      • Most suitable for mild cases or dogs with low activity demands

    • Surgical intervention

      • Procedures designed to stabilise the knee joint and restore function

      • Commonly recommended for large, active dogs

      • Aims to reduce pain and slow the progression of arthritis

    • Rehabilitation and recovery

      • Controlled, progressive exercise following treatment

      • Physiotherapy to rebuild muscle strength and joint stability

      • Long-term management to protect joint health

  • While cruciate ligament injury cannot always be prevented, the risk can be reduced through responsible management.

    • Weight control

      • Maintaining a lean body condition reduces strain on the knee joints

    • Muscle conditioning

      • Regular, controlled exercise helps support joint stability

    • Appropriate exercise

      • Avoid sudden, repetitive high-impact movements, particularly on slippery surfaces

    • Early intervention

      • Prompt veterinary assessment of hindlimb lameness can prevent further joint damage

    • Breeding considerations

      • Avoid breeding from dogs with known cruciate disease or poor structural soundness