My Golden Retriever has nerve damage. Is her leg injury permanent?

Question

my golden Retriever has nerve damage in her front left leg. She was involved in an accident at 6 months old. She incurred a hairline fracture from the accident and was casted. Her cast was so tight it caused significant swelling. Went to another vet where the cast was removed. Since then she has not walked. We tried physiotherapy to avoid atrophy but the injury was so fresh she had no success. Can nerves be permanently damaged from such a small injury. Pet's info: Dog | Golden Retriever | Female | unspayed | 5 years and 10 months old | 65 lbs

Shaneez Wallani, DVM · Accepted Answer

Poor Georgia! Unfortunately it is possible that she may have permanent damage due to her accident, especially since her injury occurred while she was a puppy and still growing. However, there may be a few things that may help her, including acupuncture, massage, chiropractic treatment, rehabilitation exercises and physiotherapy, as you mentioned. It's also important that you keep her at a lean body weight and don't let her get overweight, as that would put extra strain on her joints. Talk to your vet about joint supplements to help support her joints, as the rest of her joints and legs will be taking on extra strain due to the fact that she cannot use her left front leg, which can make them more prone to injury and arthritis. Your veterinarian may also want to prescribe pain medication, as the fact that she cannot use her leg properly is likely causing pain in the affected limb and other limbs, as described above. Some types of pain medications are particularly good for nerve pain, and may be a good option for Georgia. The links below can help you find rehabilitation and acupuncture therapists near you that may help. Good luck, and I hope Georgia feels better soon! http://www.tcvm.com/Resources/FindaTCVMPractitioner.aspx http://www.caninerehabinstitute.com/Find_A_Therapist.html

My Golden Retriever has nerve damage. Is her leg injury permanent?

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