Service

Orthopaedics

Bone, joint, ligament and muscle injuries, assessed with a physical exam and imaging.

A small white dog with a bandaged leg, resting on blankets in the hospitalisation area

What we treat

Veterinary orthopaedics deals with injuries to the musculoskeletal system: bones, joints, ligaments and muscles, whether caused by an accident or a problem that has developed gradually.

The assessment combines a physical examination with the imaging tests needed to define the most appropriate treatment for each case.

Lameness is the most common reason for consultation: from a mild sprain to fractures, cruciate ligament rupture, one of the most frequent injuries in dogs, dysplasia or age-related osteoarthritis. In cats, joint pain tends to be quieter: it often shows first in what they stop doing, such as jumping or climbing, rather than in how they walk.

Digital radiography at the clinic itself means the injury can usually be assessed the same day, and from there the treatment is decided: conservative, with rest, medication and weight control, or surgical when the injury calls for it.

When to get in touch

It may be time for an orthopaedic assessment if:

Your pet is limping or avoiding putting weight on a leg.

They have had a fall, a knock or an accident.

They struggle to climb or go down stairs, jump or get up.

You notice swelling or pain when you touch a certain area.

Limping, not putting weight on a leg, or complaining when getting up.

The cat has stopped jumping to places it used to reach.

Swelling or pain after a knock, a fall or an awkward movement.

How we work

We listen

Tell us what you have noticed and what worries you.

We assess

We examine your pet and recommend any tests that are needed.

We explain

We go through the results and the different options with you.

We follow up

We track their progress and answer any questions you have.

Frequently asked questions

Is every limp an emergency?

If no weight is placed on the leg at all, there is deformity or the pain is obvious, it should be assessed as soon as possible. A mild or intermittent limp also deserves a visit: injuries treated early heal better and with fewer after-effects.

What if the injury happens outside your opening hours?

Outside our opening hours, emergencies should go to the Hospital Veterinari del Mar in Barcelona. Then call us: we follow the case from the clinic and coordinate the recovery.

Tell us what your pet needs

Send us a request and we will call you to arrange the visit.