| HISTORY:
The owner reported a 2 month history of progressive front limb lameness,
with no history of trauma to the limb being noted. On examination,
the forelimb is abducted and externally rotated. When the dog walks,
he is unable to flex the shoulder joint normally and “flips” the limb forward
in the swing phase of the gait.
PHYSICAL EXAMINATION:
At rest, the limb appears externally rotated and abducted. (Figure
1) Flexion of the shoulder joint is abnormal when the limb is manipulated,
and range of motion is limited. Radiographs of the shoulder were
not remarkable. |
Figure 1
Abnormal positioning of the left forelimb at rest - combined with
the physical findings and the abnormal gait motion, a diagnosis of infraspinatus
muscle contracture can be made. |
