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3

The Orthopedic Examination

1,2
Dirsko J.F. von Pfeil and Felix Michael Duerr 3
1 Small Animal Surgery Locum, PLLC, Dallas, TX, USA
2 Sirius Veterinary Orthopedic Center, Omaha, NE, USA
3 Department of Clinical Sciences, College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Colorado State University, Fort Collins,
CO, USA

3.1 Introduction

The orthopedic examination plays a crucial role in determining the source of lameness and appro-
priate diagnostic and therapeutic steps. Orthopedic examination findings should always be inter-
preted in conjunction with the findings from the general physical examination and if available the
myofascial (Chapter 6), rehabilitation (Chapter 5), and neurological examinations (Chapter 4), as
well as subjective (Chapter 1) and objective gait evaluation (Chapter 2). This chapter outlines
essential steps useful in assessing the overall orthopedic health of a dog. Additional information
and more detailed instructions on regional orthopedic examinations are further discussed in the
specific regional chapters contained within this book.
Early diagnosis of musculoskeletal conditions in animals is critical to improve a patient’s
final outcome by instituting appropriate treatment or preventative strategies early in the dis -
ease progression. Hence, at the minimum, a brief orthopedic exam should be performed on
every animal presenting to a veterinary health professional. A thorough orthopedic exam should
be performed on any patient with signs of musculoskeletal abnormalities or if orthopedic treat -
ment interventions are intended. A systematic approach to the orthopedic exam is important to
ensure evaluation of all structures and therefore, the exam should always be performed in the
same order.

3.2 The Orthopedic Examination

The orthopedic examination includes the following steps (Table 3.1):
1) History and signalment
2) Visual exam
3) Subjective gait analysis (Chapter 1)
4) Palpation

Canine Lameness, First Edition. Edited by Felix Michael Duerr.
© 2020 John Wiley & Sons, Inc. Published 2020 by John Wiley & Sons, Inc.
Companion website: www.wiley.com/go/duerr/lameness