24/08/2025
Does your dog exhibit a sudden backward extension of the hind leg?
When a canine suffers from medial luxating patella, a condition where the kneecap slips out of its normal groove, typically toward the medial aspect of the leg, you may observe the affected limb suddenly extend straight back for a few steps before returning to normal function.
Mechanics of the 'kick-out' phenomenon involve the kneecap riding outside the femoral groove instead of gliding within it, thereby impeding proper stifle (knee) flexion and extension, and causing discomfort or an abnormal gait.
Dogs instinctively perform a sudden backward extension of their leg to stretch the quadriceps and patellar ligament, allowing the kneecap to slip back into the groove and re-engage normal biomechanics.
You will notice the dog may be walking or trotting normally, then skip or hold the leg up for a few steps, followed by a sharp backward kick before resuming normal use of the leg.
Episodes may be occasional in mild cases or frequent in more severe luxations. The quick extension changes the angle of the patellar ligament and femur, facilitating the kneecap's return to its normal position, essentially a self-reduction maneuver.
In some dogs with luxating patella, especially if the kneecap slips frequently, causes pain, or leads to lameness, surgery may be required. Mild cases (Grades 1–2) are often managed with weight control, muscle strengthening, and joint support, but moderate to severe cases (Grades 3–4) may necessitate surgical correction to realign the kneecap and deepen the groove, thereby restoring normal leg function, reducing pain, and preventing long-term joint damage.
For mild cases, a combination of underwater treadmill therapy and heated swimming pool exercises is recommended. Additionally, Antinol Australia may be recommended to combat inflammation that can lead to arthritis each time the patella slips.
