A thorough evaluation is the first step toward finding the right treatment.
When your pet has lameness, pain, stiffness, or trouble moving, finding the underlying cause is the key to an effective treatment plan. Orthopedic conditions can involve bones, joints, muscles, tendons, ligaments, or multiple structures at the same time. A careful evaluation allows our surgeons to identify the source of the problem and determine which diagnostic and treatment options are most appropriate.
At Edinger Surgical Options, our orthopedic evaluations are performed by experienced veterinary surgeons who specialize in diagnosing and treating musculoskeletal conditions. We take the time to understand your pet's history, observe how they move, and perform a comprehensive hands-on examination.
What to Expect During an Orthopedic Evaluation
Your appointment begins with a discussion of your pet's medical history, activity level, onset of clinical signs, previous injuries, surgeries, and changes you have noticed at home. Understanding when and how a problem developed can provide important clues about the underlying condition.
Our surgeons then perform a comprehensive orthopedic examination. This includes observing your pet's gait and movement, evaluating posture and weight-bearing, and carefully examining the limbs and joints for pain, swelling, instability, reduced range of motion, muscle changes, and other abnormalities.
In some patients, sedation may be recommended to allow for a more thorough examination, particularly when pain, muscle tension, or anxiety makes it difficult to accurately assess a joint or limb.
Advanced Diagnostic Imaging
Based on the findings of the orthopedic examination, our surgeons may recommend diagnostic imaging to further investigate the underlying problem.
X-rays (radiographs) are commonly used to evaluate bones, joints, alignment, fractures, arthritis, and other structural abnormalities. When additional detail is needed, CT scans can provide highly detailed cross-sectional and three-dimensional images, making it particularly valuable for evaluating complex bone and joint conditions and for surgical planning.
Developing a Treatment Plan
Once your pet's condition has been evaluated, our surgeons will explain the findings and discuss the available treatment options with you. Not every orthopedic condition requires surgery. Depending on the diagnosis, treatment may include conservative management, rehabilitation, pain management, joint injections, or surgery.
If surgery is recommended, we will explain the procedure, expected recovery, and postoperative care so you can make an informed decision about your pet's treatment.
Expertise From Diagnosis Through Recovery
An accurate diagnosis is the foundation of successful orthopedic care. By combining a detailed orthopedic examination with advanced diagnostic imaging and specialized surgical expertise, our team works to identify the underlying problem and develop an individualized plan focused on your pet's comfort, mobility, and long-term function.