Tarsal Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)

Tarsal Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD) is a developmental orthopaedic condition that affects the hock (ankle) joint of a dog. It occurs when a small area of cartilage within the joint fails to develop normally, resulting in thickened cartilage that can separate from the underlying bone. This abnormal cartilage may crack or form a flap within the joint, leading to pain, inflammation, lameness, and eventually arthritis if left untreated. Tarsal OCD is less common than shoulder OCD but can significantly affect mobility and athletic performance, particularly in young, large-breed dogs. Dogs with tarsal OCD may display: - Hind limb lameness - Stiffness after exercise - Reduced willingness to run or play - Pain around the hock joint - Swelling of the hock - Difficulty rising from rest - Altered gait - Reduced performance in sporting or working dogs - Progressive loss of mobility Signs can range from subtle intermittent lameness to more obvious pain and movement difficulties. Your veterinarian may recommend: - Orthopaedic examination - Gait assessment - X-rays - CT scan - Arthroscopy Advanced imaging often provides a clearer assessment of the cartilage lesion and assists with surgical planning if required. Treatment recommendations depend on the size and severity of the lesion, as well as the dog's age and activity level. Management may include: - Activity modification - Anti-inflammatory medication - Pain management - Weight management - Rehabilitation therapy - Hydrotherapy - Arthroscopic surgery - Post-operative rehabilitation Many cases of tarsal OCD require surgical intervention to remove damaged cartilage and improve joint function. Hydrotherapy is commonly recommended following diagnosis or surgery for tarsal OCD as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan. The buoyancy of water reduces pressure on the affected hock joint while allowing controlled exercise and muscle strengthening. Hydrotherapy may help: - Improve muscle strength - Increase joint mobility - Restore normal gait patterns - Reduce stiffness - Improve weight-bearing confidence - Support post-operative recovery - Improve cardiovascular fitness - Assist with weight management - Maintain long-term mobility For active and sporting dogs, hydrotherapy can be especially valuable in supporting a gradual return to normal activity. Many dogs undergo arthroscopic surgery to remove cartilage flaps and address joint abnormalities associated with OCD. Following veterinary clearance, hydrotherapy can assist by: - Rebuilding muscle mass lost during recovery - Improving limb use and weight bearing - Encouraging flexibility and controlled movement - Supporting safe progression back to exercise - Improving overall functional recovery Rehabilitation plans are tailored to each dog's surgery, recovery stage, and long-term goals. Even with successful treatment, some dogs may develop varying degrees of arthritis later in life. A long-term management plan may include: - Maintaining a healthy body weight - Regular controlled exercise - Ongoing strength and conditioning - Periodic hydrotherapy sessions - Veterinary monitoring - Joint supplements and medications where appropriate Early diagnosis and appropriate rehabilitation can help maximise comfort and mobility well into adulthood. We work closely with your veterinarian and specialist team to develop personalised rehabilitation programs for dogs diagnosed with tarsal OCD. Whether your dog is recovering from surgery, managing joint discomfort, or returning to sporting activities, our goal is to support strength, mobility, comfort, and long-term joint health through safe, evidence-based hydrotherapy. Every program is tailored to the individual dog's diagnosis, activity level, and stage of recovery.