Author(s): Dr. Scott Stahl, Stahl Exotic Animal Veterinary Services
Signalment
Adult Dutch rabbit
History
Fractured right tibia immobilized with a splint for one month
Diagnostics and Exam Findings:
Contracture of tendons of stifle and hock and deviation of fracture site, as well as abnormal gait after splint removal. Rabbit was unable to stand on hind legs to groom or ambulate without limping.
Laser Treatment
Hock treated at 1.3W and stifle at 3.8W for a total dose of 288 and 900 Joules, respectively
Frequency of Treatment
Twice weekly for six total treatments
Other Treatments
Oral Meloxicam
Comments
After three weeks of laser therapy, the leg was held in a more normal position and the rabbit was able to move more normally without restrictions and stand on its hind legs to groom.
Before and After Video
After laser therapy treatment photo of rabbit with fracture and tendon contracture