Canine Fibula Bone

Full Title: Canine Fibula Bone

Author: Cheryl Fetter

Date of Publication: December 30, 2013

PDF: http://petmassage.com/wp-content/uploads/Canine-Fibula-Bone-by-Cheryl-Fetter-2013-12-30.pdf

Research Paper Text:

Location of the Fibula Bone

The canine fibula bone is located in the hind limbs. It is a narrow bone that is attached to the tibia bone and lies laterally. It consists of a proximal head, a neck, a shaft and a lateral malleoulus. In canines the fibula bone has reduced strength and function. The interosseous space separates the fibula and tibia proximally and is bridged by soft tissue. Muscles attached to the fibula bone are the lateral digital flexor and the peroneus brevis. The fibula bone does not interact with stifle joint. The fibular head articulates with the lateral tibial condyle and serves as the distal attachment of the collateral ligament of the stifle.

Fibula Bone Problems

The fibula bone could fracture or the lateral digital flexor and or peroneus brevis muscle attachments could become detached. If these muscle attachments became separated from their attachment site on the fibula bone, in most cases this would need to be surgically repaired. There are two types of fractures; open (compound) and closed (simple). See image below for an example. An open bone fracture breaks through the skin and will need to be surgically repaired and has a longer recuperation time. It also has a greater chance of infection. In most cases, a closed fracture can be repaired by limiting activity and splinting or casting the limb. If the fracture is not repaired or the repair fails, this may cause abnormalities of the limb. Fractured bones are usually caused by trauma but can also be due to disease, malnourishment, and endocrine disorder; hyperthyroidism.

Signs & Symptoms of Fibula Bone Problems

If you notice your pet is positioning their leg abnormally, have lameness, pain or unable to move, it is important to have them examined by a Veterinarian immediately. These are signs of a major leg injury.

How Massage Can Aide in the Healing Treatment

Massage can be used to compliment the Veterinarian’s treatment plan. It is important not to apply massage directly to the injured limb. This could cause the bone not to heal properly and there may also be an incision. Massage will stimulate blood flow to the stifle area, reduce joint stress, may help to ease pain, speed up the recovery time, and promote wellness, relaxation and comfort. Even though the pet will have limited activity, they will still be overworking other parts of their body to make up for the injured limb. Massage can play a major role in relaxing and comforting those overworking limbs.

When the limb is healed, the Veterinarian will send the pet to a rehabilitation center or teach the owner exercises to do so the pet regains proper use of that limb. In a case where the fibula bone is fractured or broken or a muscle attachment became separated, it is important for a canine massage practitioner to be in touch with the Veterinarian to have a clear understanding of the pet’s treatment plan.

References

  • www.petplace.com
  • www.wcvs.org
  • www.petwave.com
  • www.wikivet.com
  • http://cal.vet.upenn.edu
  • Guide To The Dissection of the Dog – 6th Edition – Copy write 2004
  • Howard E Evans & Alexander deLAHUNTA

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