Extracorporeal shockwave therapy in the canine distal limb: Case evaluations
A practical open forum with Dr. Melissa Franssen focused on exam strategy, distal limb anatomy, and real cases.
About the Presentation
In this open forum, Dr. Melissa Franssen walks through a highly practical approach to canine distal limb lameness, with a focus on digit anatomy, exam strategy, and real case examples treated with extracorporeal shockwave. The session emphasizes how to “tease out” the source of forelimb lameness when the shoulder, elbow, or carpus does not fully explain what you are seeing. You will learn quick, repeatable exam steps, including digit valgus/varus stress testing, plus common pitfalls (like missing nail bed injuries).
What you’ll learn:
Distal limb and digit anatomy refresher (collaterals, dorsal ligament,DDF vs SDF clues)
Exam flow to localize forelimb lameness (Campbell’s test, shoulder abduction, carpal and digit assessment)
Digit valgus/varus stress testing and what “normal” looks like clinically (comparative approach and end-feel)
Buddy taping technique and immobilization considerations
How ultrasound depth measurement can inform targeting and setup
Case Highlights
The forum features three cases that highlight decision-making and execution
A Greyhound with recurrent digit instability and marked valgus deviation at the PIP joint, managed with shockwave plus immobilization strategies (including buddy taping and booting adjustments due to sighthound skin issues).
A Whippet agility athlete with digit pain that appeared primarily during sharp turns, treated with shockwave, followed by progressive reloading strategies once comfort improved.
A Labrador with acute medial carpal swelling diagnosed via ultrasound as abductor pollicis longus tenosynovitis, where ultrasound depth measurement informed treatment setup, and shockwave was used as a least-invasive option
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