Dog CCL and ACL Injuries: Vet Care and Acupuncture
Knee ligament tears: signs, treatment options and where acupuncture may fit in rehabilitation.
This guide is educational and does not replace a veterinary diagnosis. Acupuncture is used alongside, not instead of, conventional care, and the evidence differs from condition to condition. See our Medical Disclaimer.
See a veterinarian first
Contact your veterinarian or an emergency animal hospital immediately, and do not delay care to try acupuncture, if:
- Your dog suddenly will not put weight on a hind leg after running or jumping.
- The knee is swollen or your dog is crying out.
- Lameness does not improve within a day or two.
This list is not complete. If you are worried, call your veterinarian.
What is cruciate ligament (CCL/ACL) injuries?
In dogs the main knee ligament is the cranial cruciate ligament (CCL), the equivalent of the human ACL. A partial or full tear causes hind leg lameness and, over time, knee arthritis. It is one of the most common orthopedic injuries in dogs.
Signs to look for
- Sudden or gradual hind leg limp
- Holding the leg up or touching only the toes
- Sitting with one leg stuck out to the side
- Swelling at the knee
- Stiffness after rest
How veterinarians diagnose and treat it
Your veterinarian will examine the knee and usually take X-rays. Surgery, such as TPLO, TTA or a lateral suture, is commonly recommended, especially for medium and large dogs. Some small dogs, or dogs that cannot have surgery, are managed with rest, weight control, a brace and rehabilitation, with variable results. Rehabilitation is normally part of recovery either way.
Where acupuncture may fit
Acupuncture may be used for pain and muscle tension before or after surgery, or alongside conservative management. It does not repair a torn ligament.
What the evidence says: There is little direct research on acupuncture for cruciate injuries in dogs. Its use is based mainly on clinical experience in rehabilitation.
Results vary from dog to dog and cannot be promised. To find a practitioner, see the veterinary acupuncture directory.
Acupuncture points commonly discussed for this condition
These points are named in traditional dog acupuncture charts for the signs described on this page. Each guide gives the location, traditional indications and safety notes. Listing a point is not a promise that it will help, and points are chosen by the practitioner for each dog.
- ST35 Du Bi (犊鼻)Chart lists: knee arthritis, sprain, pain
- GB33 Xi Yang Guan (膝阳关)Chart lists: knee joint pain, hind limb paralysis
- GB34 Yang Ling Quan (阳陵泉)Chart lists: tendon and ligament injuries
- KI10 Yin Gu (阴谷)Chart lists: knee pain
- LIV7 Xi Guan (膝关)Chart lists: knee joint pain
- BL40 Wei Zhong (委中)Chart lists: lumbar and back pain, hind limb paralysis
- ST36 Zu San Li (足三里)Chart lists: hind limb paralysis
See all points on the dog acupuncture points chart.
Recovery and mobility resources
Recovery guides
Home-care e-books for IVDD recovery and senior pet wellness.
See the guides →Mobility and rehabilitation
Mobility aids, rehabilitation equipment and support products for dogs recovering from injury or illness.
Browse mobility resources →Pet insurance
What to consider when comparing pet insurance for surgery, rehabilitation and long-term care.
Read about pet insurance →Some resources are our own digital products, sold on Gumroad. Links to products from other makers may be affiliate links and are labelled. Mobility aids and rehabilitation should follow your veterinarian’s advice. See our Affiliate and Product Disclosure.
Frequently asked questions
Can acupuncture heal a torn cruciate ligament?
No. A torn ligament does not heal back with acupuncture. It is used, if at all, to help with pain and recovery.
Is surgery always needed?
Not always, but it is often advised, especially for larger dogs. Your veterinarian or a surgeon will explain the options for your dog.
Can I use acupuncture after surgery?
Ask your surgeon first. Practitioners avoid the surgical site and follow the surgeon’s rest and rehabilitation plan.
Related dog conditions
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