A CCL tear (cranial cruciate ligament injury) in dogs is a common orthopedic condition where the ligament that stabilizes the knee joint becomes partially or completely torn. This ligament, similar to the ACL in humans, helps keep the knee stable during movement.
When it is damaged, the joint becomes unstable, leading to pain, inflammation, limping, and difficulty walking.
CCL tears in dogs often develop over time due to degeneration rather than a sudden injury, especially in active or overweight pets.
Limping or favoring a hind leg
Stiffness or changes in gait
Swelling around the knee joint
Difficulty getting up or rising from rest
Decreased activity or reluctance to run/jump
If your dog is diagnosed with a CCL tear (cranial cruciate ligament injury), surgery is often recommended—but may not be the only option.
At Healing Paws Center, a holistic and integrative veterinary clinic in Fort Lauderdale, we offer non-surgical CCL treatment options for dogs to help restore mobility and reduce pain without immediately resorting to surgery.
Many dogs with CCL injuries can successfully recover through a customized rehabilitation plan designed to support healing and joint stability.
Each treatment plan is tailored to your dog's specific needs and may include targeted natural supplements, and advanced integrative therapies such as laser therapy, physical rehabilitation, manual therapy, controlled therapeutic exercise, and/or custom bracing.
Our goal is to improve function, reduce inflammation, and help your dog regain strength safely and effectively.
If surgery is necessary, we work alongside you every step of the way—before, during, and after the procedure—to optimize recovery and long-term outcomes.
Low-impact aquatic exercise to rebuild muscle without stressing the healing joint
Learn More →Joint support and anti-inflammatory botanical formulas to improve comfort and mobility
Restored mobility without surgery
Reduced pain and inflammation
Improved joint stability
Regained strength and function
Reduced risk of re-injury
Better long-term outcomes
Non-invasive, holistic approach
Optimized post-surgical recovery (when needed)
Whether you're exploring non-surgical options or need post-surgical rehabilitation, our team is here to support your dog's recovery with comprehensive, integrative care. Let us help your dog regain mobility and live pain-free.