Editing Luxating patella (section)

==Treatment==
Grades II, III, and IV require [[surgery]] to correct, if the animal has difficulty walking. The surgery required is governed by the type of abnormality present, but often involves a [[sulcoplasty]], a deepening of the trochlear sulcus where the patella sits, a realignment of the attachment of the patella tendon on the tibia, and tightening or releasing of the capsule on either side of the patella, according to which side the patella is slipping. Some grade IV conditions may require more involved surgery to realign the femur and/or tibia.

A therapeutic dosage of [[glucosamine]] can be used as a preliminary treatment to strengthen ligaments and the surrounding tissues of the joint and can delay or prevent surgery.<ref>{{Cite web|url=http://vcahospitals.com/know-your-pet/luxating-patella-or-kneecap-in-dogs|title=Cruciate Ligament Rupture in Dogs|last=Ward, DVM|first=Ernest|website=VCA|language=en|access-date=2020-01-23}}</ref>

Additional help can be given with the use of pet ramps, stairs, or steps. These can help the animal travel from one place to another, especially up and down, without adding any pain or damage to the patella.