The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) has several mechanical roles. It counters hyperextension, internal rotation, and cranial translation of the tibia relative to the femur and provides important proprioceptive feedback for neuromuscular control of thelimb.1'5 Deficiency in the ligament is nearly always degenerative in dogs, progressing toward ligament laxity, joint instability, inflammation, pain, and osteoarthritis.2 Consequently, canine CCL disease alters both kinetic (weight-bearing forces) and kinematic (motion) properties of the normal hindlimb, resulting in lameness. A deeper understanding of the normal canine physiology and anatomy allow for the development of more targeted physiotherapy protocols.
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