What is the primary assessment tool used to evaluate joint integrity?

The primary assessment tool used to evaluate joint integrity is joint stability tests. These tests involve specific maneuvers that assess the functional stability of the joint and its ability to withstand stress under various conditions. The practitioner applies force to the joint and observes for any instability that may indicate damage to the ligaments or other supporting structures. This hands-on approach provides direct feedback on the joint's condition, offering insight that is critical for diagnosing potential injuries or assessing joint health.

While imaging techniques such as X-rays can provide valuable information about the bone structure and detect conditions like fractures, they do not assess the functional stability of a joint. Visual assessments may offer some observations, but they lack the precision needed to evaluate joint integrity thoroughly. Similarly, owner questionnaires can provide context and subjective insights about the dog's behavior and potential issues but do not replace the need for physical examination techniques necessary to objectively assess joint function. Therefore, joint stability tests are considered the most effective method for directly evaluating joint integrity.