My dog's leg muscle is twisted and he sometimes limps. What can I do?

The walk may have been too much for Benji. I recommend resting him for the next 48 hours. No running, jumping, or playing. Take him out to toilet on a leash, and bring him right back in when he's done. If he still appears painful after this time, then I would take him into the vet for an exam. The vet can diagnose where the pain is coming from, and can dictate a treatment plan for it. He may also benefit from some pain medications, which the vet can prescribe. Please do not give him any human pain medications, as many are toxic to dogs and can be fatal if given.

Yes, Pumpkin could be experiencing muscle wastage from infrequent use of his hind leg. It is concerning that he has been limping on and off for a couple of weeks, as limping is a sign of pain in dogs. I would have him seen by a vet first thing in the morning for a lameness exam and possibly x-rays. These tests will help the vet identify what is causing the limping, such as a strained or torn ligament, or a luxating patella among other causes, and can discuss treatment options with you.

It's possible that it could be a conditioning or strengthening issue, depending what kind of exercise your dog is doing and what the [limp](https://www.petcoach.co/article/why-is-my-dog-limping) looks like - sport dogs, such as competitive agility or frisbee dogs, often have issues like this that can be improved with specific types of exercises - if you think this could be the problem with your dog, I would recommend making an appointment with a vet who specializes in sports medicine to evaluate your dog and develop a specific exercise regimen for her to help improve the issue. Other [possible causes](https://www.petcoach.co/article/5-common-orthopedic-conditions-in-dogs) of chronic limping after exercise would include [arthritis](https://www.petcoach.co/dog/condition/arthritis-1/), or a chronic soft tissue injury such as a muscle tear or ligament injury that is aggravated by exercise. A good sports medicine vet or orthopedic surgeon could tell you more after examining your dog and watching her move.

This really depending on the cause of the limp. If there is sever muscular damage, massage could actually make the discomfort worse and if the limp is due to and underlying joint concern, massage may not do much. You'll want to visit your local Veterinarian for a comprehensive exam. This way you'll know for sure the best approach to take.

Hello, and thank you for your question. Causes of limping include a soft tissue injury (i.e. strain/sprain), a fracture, or a dislocation. I would recommend restricting his exercise for the next few days - no running, jumping, or rough play. If it is a sprain, it should gradually improve with time. If it does not, I would recommend taking Mugz to the vet. They can evaluate for any pain or swelling, and can recommend x-rays if necessary. I hope this helps, and that Mugz is feeling better soon!

Thank you for submitting your question regarding Mickey. The only thing you can do at home is to keep him quiet. Limit his movements and do not allow any running, jumping or stairs. I recommend that he sees a veterinarian though. He is very painful if he is holding the leg up. Shaking and panting also indicate pain. He may need x-rays of his leg to determine why he is limping. Based on these results, pain medication can be prescribed. Do not give any over-the-counter pain medications at home as these can be toxic to dogs. I hope this information helps!

Aww poor guy. He may have a muscle sprain. You can apply a cold compress onto the areas that appear sore for 5-10 minute intervals twice a day for next few days. Also limit his activity, don't encourage active play, and leash walk him only outside. If this is just a muscle sprain then he should improve over the next 48-72 hrs. However keep in mind that he should be able to at least move the limb somewhat, there shouldn't be a significant amount of noticeable swelling, and it shouldn't appear to be dangling (possible fracture). These are all signs that you shouldn't wait and should take him in right away. I do not recommend giving him any over the counter human pain medication, because these are not safe for pets due to high risk of acute liver and kidney damage. If he is still limping after that time frame, or getting any worse, then it is best to have your vet take a look at him to make sure he doesn't have more serious internal injuries (ligament injury, hairline bone fracture, dislocation).