Injury to the biceps brachii muscle (injury to the muscle at the shoulder joint) in Dogs
- Occurrence: common
- Location of illness: Legs
An M. biceps brachii injury in dogs is damage to the biceps muscle, which is located in the foreleg and attached to the shoulder joint. This injury can range from a mild strain to a complete tear.
The most important facts at a glance
The M. biceps brachii is an important muscle in dogs, responsible for flexing the elbow joint and stabilizing the shoulder joint. Injuries to this muscle can result from overuse, sudden movements, trauma, or degenerative changes. Athletically active dogs are often affected. Symptoms of an injury include Lameness, Shoulder pain, and difficulty extending the leg. Diagnosis is made by clinical examinations, imaging procedures such as ultrasound or MRI, and possibly by arthroscopy.
Treatment depends on the severity of the injury. Mild strains can be treated conservatively with rest and physical therapy measures, while more severe injuries may require surgery. Strict aftercare with controlled increase in activity is crucial for successful healing. Prognoses vary depending on the severity and treatment, but with proper care, many dogs can regain their function. Long-term complications are possible if the injury is not treated in time.
Preventive measures such as regular training to strengthen the muscles and a balanced diet play an important role in minimizing the risk of injury. Overweight should be avoided as it puts additional stress on the joints. A gradual increase in physical activities and regular veterinary examinations can also help prevent injuries. Research in this area is striving to further understand and improve the causes and more effective treatment strategies.
Causes
The M. biceps brachii is an important muscle that runs along the front of the upper arm. It plays a crucial role in flexing the elbow joint and stabilizing the shoulder joint. Anatomically, the muscle consists of long muscle fibers and a tendon that is attached to the shoulder joint. This tendon runs through a groove in the humerus, making it susceptible to injury.
In dogs, an M. biceps brachii injury can occur due to various causes. One of the most common causes is overuse of the muscle, which can occur in athletically active dogs or those participating in agility competitions. In addition, sudden, violent movements or trauma, such as a fall or impact, can lead to damage.
Other causes may include degenerative changes that occur with age, or inflammatory processes such as biceps tendinitis. A genetic predisposition may also play a role in certain breeds, as some dogs are more prone to tendon injuries. Overweight and lack of conditioning can also increase the risk.
Symptoms
The symptoms of an M. biceps brachii injury in dogs vary depending on the severity of the injury. With a mild strain, the dog may only experience mild Pain and show slight Lameness. This Lameness is often intermittent and may worsen after activity.
In more severe injuries, such as a partial or complete tear of the tendon, the dog usually shows significant Lameness of the affected foreleg. The animal may relieve the affected leg and have difficulty getting up or jumping. Swelling in the area of the shoulder and upper arm may also occur.
Another sign may be reduced muscle mass in the affected area, which results from the Protective posture / guarding posture of the dog over a longer period of time. The dog may also be sensitive to pressure in the area of the shoulder joint.
Diagnosis
The diagnosis of an M. biceps brachii injury begins with a thorough clinical examination by a veterinarian. The veterinarian will palpate the affected area to determine Pain, Swelling, or muscle atrophy. A specific examination technique, the so-called “biceps tendon test”, can be performed to assess the tenderness of the tendon.
Imaging procedures can be used for further diagnosis. X-rays help to rule out other causes such as fractures, but often do not show the soft tissue injury itself. An ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides more detailed information about the condition of the muscle and tendon. These procedures can help to determine the extent of the injury more precisely.
In some cases, arthroscopy may also be necessary to directly assess the extent of the injury. In this minimally invasive procedure, a camera is inserted into the joint to directly inspect the shoulder structure.
Therapy
Treatment for an M. biceps brachii injury depends on the severity of the injury. For mild strains, conservative treatment with rest, anti-inflammatory medications, and physical therapy may be sufficient. The dog should be kept on a leash for several weeks and physical activities should be restricted to allow for complete healing.
For more severe injuries, especially a partial or complete tear of the tendon, surgery may be required. The surgery aims to repair or reconstruct the tendon. After the operation, strict aftercare is required, which includes rest and a gradual increase in movement activities. Physical therapy can help improve mobility and muscle strength.
In addition, alternative therapies such as laser therapy or acupuncture can be used to promote healing and relieve pain. The use of dietary supplements containing glucosamine and chondroitin can also be supportive.
Prognosis and follow-up care
The prognosis for dogs with an M. biceps brachii injury varies depending on the severity of the injury and the treatment method chosen. For mild injuries, the prognosis is generally good if the dog is treated appropriately and activity is restricted during the healing phase.
For more severe injuries requiring surgical intervention, the prognosis depends on factors such as the dog’s age, general health, and rehabilitation after surgery. With appropriate postoperative care and rehabilitation, many dogs can regain good to very good function of the affected leg.
Long-term complications are possible, especially if the injury is not recognized or treated early. These can include permanent Lameness or reduced joint mobility. Regular follow-up with the veterinarian is important to monitor the healing progress.
Prevention
Preventive measures play an important role in minimizing the risk of M. biceps brachii injury. Good physical conditioning is crucial, especially for athletically active dogs. Regular training aimed at strengthening the muscles and improving flexibility can reduce the risk of injury.
A balanced diet that supports the dog’s ideal weight is also important, as Overweight increases the stress on the joints and muscles. Feeding food rich in omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine and chondroitin can promote joint health.
It is important to avoid sudden, excessive physical exertion, especially in dogs that are not regularly trained. A gradual increase in the intensity and duration of activities can help prevent injuries. Regular veterinary examinations can help detect early signs of muscle or joint problems and treat them in time.