Effect of Nail Grips on Weight Bearing and Limb Function in 30 Dogs 2 Weeks Post Tibial Plateau Leveling Osteotomy

SIMPLE SUMMARY: Devices made to improve mobility are becoming increasingly popular among owners of dogs with orthopedic conditions, but there are few studies investigating their efficacy. Nail grips are commonly used by veterinary rehabilitation practitioners to improve the security of foot placement by increasing nail traction. This study aimed to assess if nail grips would improve mobility outcomes in dogs recovering from knee surgery. The results did not show a significant effect on outcomes during the initial 2-week post-operative period; however, further research is needed to determine if they are useful for other applications. ABSTRACT: The objective of this study was to assess the functional outcomes of dogs wearing nail grips in the first 2 weeks following tibial plateau leveling osteotomy (TPLO). Thirty dogs were included (n = 13 nail grips and n = 17 sham grips). Visual lameness scores (VLS), total pressure index (TPI), and client-specific outcome measures (CSOMs) were obtained by blinded observers on day 1 and day 14 +/− 3 post TPLO. CSOMs were also obtained on day 7. There were no differences in VLS and TPI between the treatment and sham group on day 14 (p = 0.44 and p = 0.59, respectively) or at any time point. CSOMs assessing walking on slippery flooring, ability to rise, and consistent use of surgical limb on a 5 min walk were also not different between groups (p = 0.78, p = 0.80, and p = 0.63) at any time point. Nail grips were well tolerated in dogs after orthopedic surgery. This study did not demonstrate a benefit for dogs wearing nail grips during the first two weeks after TPLO; however, further studies are warranted.