Carpal Hyperextension in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment
Dogs walk on the tips of their toes, quite differently from humans. Sometimes, injuries or conditions affect their carpal joint (wrist), leading to a problem called carpal hyperextension. This occurs when the joint collapses or drops closer to the ground, causing discomfort and impaired movement that needs prompt veterinary attention.
Understanding Carpal Hyperextension in Dogs
The carpus is the dog's wrist joint, made up of seven small bones arranged in rows and stabilised by ligaments. It supports about 60% of a dog’s weight on the front legs and allows smooth flexion and extension when moving.
Carpal hyperextension happens when the ligaments holding the carpus firm become injured, lax or torn, resulting in the joint dropping or hyperextending abnormally. This leads to the wrist collapsing or appearing "flatter" than usual when the dog stands or walks, often causing pain and lameness.
While any dog can suffer this, it’s especially common in older dogs due to degenerative ligament changes or younger dogs who have suffered trauma.
Common Causes of Carpal Hyperextension
- Trauma: The most common cause is injury due to landing heavily when jumping or falls, which can tear ligaments or fracture carpal bones.
- Degenerative Changes: Age-related weakening of ligaments in older dogs or certain breeds, like Collies, may cause gradual joint instability.
- Developmental Abnormalities: Puppies might have ligament laxity or other abnormalities causing hyperextension, sometimes affecting both front legs.
- Other Factors: Inflammatory or endocrine diseases may also play a role but are less frequent causes.
Signs Your Dog May Have Carpal Hyperextension
- The wrist joint appears to "drop" or sink closer to the ground, with the paw seeming flat-footed or longer.
- Sudden or progressive lameness of the front legs.
- Swelling, inflammation, or pain around the wrist.
- Changes in the dog's posture and gait, walking with the affected leg abnormally flat or unstable.
How Vets Diagnose This Condition
A vet begins by examining the dog's carpal joint, noting swelling, pain, instability, and the dog's age and history. Because normal X-rays might not reveal ligament damage, vets often perform "stress radiographs"—X-rays taken while stressing the joint to reveal instability. Sedation is usually necessary for this procedure to ensure the dog remains still and safe during imaging.
Additional tests like blood work and urinalysis may also be done to evaluate overall health before any sedation or treatment.
Treatment Options for Carpal Hyperextension
Mild cases might be managed conservatively with rest, wrist supports or splints, anti-inflammatory medications, and physiotherapy. However, many carpal injuries require surgical intervention.
Surgery typically involves stabilising the joint by placing metal plates, pins, or screws to allow the dog to stand and walk normally again. In less severe injuries, a cast may suffice. Post-surgery, pain relief is essential and must continue after going home.
Essential Aftercare and Recovery
Post-surgery, dogs will usually wear a cast or splint. It's vital to keep these dry and clean, checking daily for any signs of infection such as swelling, redness, heat, or discomfort. If a bandage gets wet or dirty, veterinary replacement is necessary to prevent infection.
Strict rest is required for 6 to 8 weeks. Follow-up X-rays ensure proper healing, and the vet will decide when to remove the cast or splint safely.
Long-term Management and Quality of Life
Some dogs may never regain full normal wrist movement depending on the severity of their injury and the surgery performed. However, many adapt well with proper care and can still enjoy an active, pain-free life.
Preventing Carpal Hyperextension Injuries
Complete prevention is difficult, but you can reduce risks by discouraging your dog from jumping down from significant heights and avoiding rough terrain with holes or uneven ground that might cause injury. Ensuring your dog maintains a healthy weight and condition also supports joint health.
Recognising early signs and seeking veterinary advice promptly can prevent worsening damage and improve outcomes.
For those interested in finding a puppy or learning about reputable breeders, always prioritise those who promote health and responsible ownership.
