Disease Description: A condition where the "wrist" bones are loose and out of alignment.

Inherit Mode: -

Disease Symptom: Carpal subluxation involves a weakening and swelling of the tendons in the forelegs and either a gradual (in the case of genetic subluxation) or sudden (in the case of traumatic subluxation), dislocation of the bones between the dog's wrist and radius. Both forelegs are affected, although in the case of trauma, one may be more damaged than the other. Due to the nature of the trauma, either a fall or a jump from a high height, both forelegs will hit the ground at a similar force and be injured. If left untreated, the bones in the lower foreleg will become further separated over time, and the tendons may become hardened from the trauma of walking on the dislocated joints.

Disease Cause: The condition is most common in medium- to large-sized dogs and may be the result of a fall or high jump, degenerative genetic conditions, or immune-related diseases of the joint.

Disease Diagnose: -

Treat Method: Breeders and veterinarians have had some success with diet changes for dogs who appear to be genetically affected. Your veterinarian may suggest splinting or placing the forelegs in a cast to give the tendons and damaged tissues a chance to repair themselves. In the cast of immune-related joint disease, the vet will combine splinting and gentle exercise with an immunosuppressant. Unfortunately, splinting corrects the dislocation in less than 25 percent of cases.Surgical intervention is the most common and most frequently successful treatment of this condition. Most veterinarians recommend joint arthrodesis, a procedure that removes cartilage and encourages bone growth in the joint, stiffening the dislocated areas.

Breeder Advice: Carpal subluxation is a serious condition, and if your dog is suffering from it, you should take him to a veterinarian immediately. Fortunately, with surgical intervention, most dogs will recover well. Although he will lose some range of motion, your dog may even be able to walk without a limp or noticeable fault in his gait.

Disease Description Source: Link