Report Content
## Subjective History
### Home Adaptations
Not assessed during this session.
### Demeanour
Not assessed during this session.
### Injury History
Bruce, a 6-year-old entire male German Shepherd, has no known previous injuries.
### Current Medication
Bruce is not currently on any medications.
### Exercise Routine
Bruce's daily exercise routine consists of a half-hour walk each day. No other changes in routine were reported.
## Objective Findings
### Posture Analysis
Bruce exhibits a narrow base stance with external rotation from the hip. His sit posture is generally good, although his back could be straighter, and his feet are tucked in. Sit-to-stand transitions are improving.
### Gait Analysis
Bruce demonstrates a narrow base stance with external rotation from the hip. His hips are bilaterally lowered, and there is a mild restriction in the extension of the left tarsal due to high hamstring tone in the semimembranosus and semitendinosus muscles. Bilateral hip extension is mildly limited. Turning left is mildly unbalanced.
### Range of Motion Assessment
The range of motion in Bruce's neck is satisfactory. Full range of motion is present in the digits, carpus, elbow, and shoulder. Protraction and retraction in the full limbs are also adequate.
### Palpation
The latissimus dorsi is reactive bilaterally, with associated hair changes. Trigger points are observed in the thoracolumbar region bilaterally, with spasming extending into the intercostal space.
### Neurological Testing
Not assessed during this session.
## Assessment
Bruce presents with a narrow base stance and external rotation from the hip, with mild limitations in bilateral hip extension and left tarsal extension due to high hamstring tone. The latissimus dorsi and thoracolumbar regions show reactivity and trigger points, respectively, which may contribute to his gait and posture abnormalities. Despite these findings, Bruce maintains a satisfactory range of motion in most joints and is improving in sit-to-stand transitions.
## Plan
The primary aims are to enhance Bruce's hind limb strength and flexibility while maintaining joint range of motion. Continued monitoring of his gait and posture is recommended, with particular focus on addressing the high hamstring tone and reactivity in the latissimus dorsi and thoracolumbar regions. Incorporating exercises that target these areas, such as specific stretching and strengthening routines, may be beneficial. Regular reassessment will be necessary to evaluate progress and adjust the physiotherapy plan accordingly.