Have you heard of Medial Shoulder Instability?

A relatively common cause of lameness, Canine () is a complex orthopedic condition involving the breakdown of the soft tissue structures that stabilize the shoulder joint’s medial aspect (inside).

MSI most commonly affects athletic and working dogs, though it can occur in dogs of any breed or activity level.

MSI occurs when the shoulder joint becomes unstable because the tissues that hold it in place (like ligaments and tendons) are damaged. This instability leads to pain and discomfort and often results in lameness or stiffness in the dog’s front leg.

• Repetitive Strain: High-impact activities such as jumping, running, or sudden directional changes.
• Trauma: Acute injuries from falls or accidents.
• Overuse: Common in canine sports like agility, flyball, or retrieving.

As a physiotherapist working with dogs diagnosed with MSI, my role is to develop a treatment plan that will help improve the dog’s shoulder function, reduce pain, enhance overall quality of life, and avoid further injury.

Physiotherapy is essential in managing mild to moderate cases of MSI, often before surgery is needed, and especially after surgery to aid recovery. The main goals are to:

• Reduce pain and inflammation through techniques like cold therapy or laser treatment
• Strengthen muscles around the shoulder to help stabilize the joint, using exercises like gentle stretching and strengthening routines
• Improve joint mobility through specific movements and proprioception training (which helps the dog understand where its body is in space, improving balance).

For dogs requiring surgery, physiotherapy is a key part of recovery. After a surgical procedure, such as ligament repair or joint stabilization, we help the dog:

• Regain strength and mobility in the affected limb
• Gradually return to normal activities with exercises that avoid overloading the healing shoulder joint
• Educate owners on how to monitor their dog’s recovery at home to prevent complications like over-exertion

The sooner a dog is diagnosed and treated, the better the outcome. Whether we use conservative therapy (without surgery) or a combination of surgery and rehabilitation, success depends on early intervention and consistent care. With the right treatment plan, many dogs fully recover or return to their usual activities, however, owners need to follow through with the physiotherapy plan to ensure the best chance for recovery. Physiotherapy, combined with proper medical care, gives many dogs the best opportunity for recovery and improved quality of life.

Contact me at @Canine Pawsibilities to discuss how I can help your dog suffering from MSI.