Trouble Walking
Summary
Trouble walking can be caused by a musculoskeletal problem or a neurological problem. Our doctor’s examination along with a complete orthopedic and neurologic exam in addition to radiographs and other tests can help diagnose a broken bone, joint luxation, soft tissue sprain or strain injury, joint swelling, cruciate tear, blood clot, dragging paws, IVDD, arthritis, and other degenerative diseases.
Common Symptoms
- Broken bone
- Joint luxation
- Sprain or strain injury
- Cruciate tear
- Joint swelling
- Dragging paws
- IVDD
- Arthritis
- Degenerative joint disease
A sprain is an acute injury that presents after exercise or trauma. Arthritis is a chronic condition that worsens over time. A thorough history and physical examination can help support a diagnosis of a sprain/soft tissue injury or a diagnosis of arthritis.
Yes, conditions affecting the brain, spinal cord, or nerves can disrupt the signals needed for coordinated movement, leading to various gait abnormalities. This can manifest as difficulty standing, walking, loss of balance, weakness, or even paralysis.
Limping is a sign of pain, and ideally your pet should be evaluated as soon as they are noted to be walking abnormally in order to provide them with some pain relief.
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