Llechen was referred to the SMART clinic after a right hindlimb amputation following a traumatic event. Llechen was found with her leg impaled on a fence with a fracture to both the tibia and fibula. Unfortunately, despite the fracture being repaired, there was significant soft tissue damage, with an area becoming necrotic. Due to the extent of the soft tissue devitalisation the decision was made to opt for amputation. Llechen was seen at SMART initially 5 weeks after this second surgery. She had already recovered well and was able to get onto some low surfaces at home. 

On examination here, Llechen had significant back and pelvic discomfort, likely originating from the original trauma. She was also learning to adapt to life on three legs and tended to really shorten through the back rather than stabilise on the remaining hindlimb. She was initially very sensitive to touch over her lower back and therefore was nervous of treatment. 

The goal of Llechen’s treatment was to strengthen the left hindlimb, particularly in a more neutral to extended position, while looking to combat the muscular soreness concurrently. She was on Metacam originally, and we started in clinic with laser therapy and very gentle soft tissue massage of the thoracic girdle.  She gradually became increasingly compliant for treatment and now loves settling in for massage. We have since been able to introduce deeper soft tissue work including over the lumbar spine and pelvis, and she also has sessions in the treadmill. She is back to exploring her house as previously, including being able to climb onto higher surfaces and being able to maintain a longer frame through her body.