What is patellar luxation in dogs?
The patella, or kneecap, is part of the extensor mechanism located between the thigh muscle (quadriceps femoris) and the shin bone (tibia).
Under normal circumstances, the kneecap slides up and down in the groove of the femur (trochlea femoris) during flexion and extension.
Patellar luxation occurs when the kneecap dislocates from this groove. This condition can cause pain, lameness, muscle imbalance, and, in the long term, osteoarthritis.
Patellar luxation in dogs is one of the most common inherited orthopedic disorders, making early detection crucial.