ACL injury or patellar luxation?

Question
Our 9 1/2 year old, 45 lb., lab/border collie mix, Maggie, went out for her run on Saturday and when doing one of her fancy cut backs, she came up lame on her right rear leg. We took her to our vet on Monday morning and he said it was patellar luxation--no xray or anything--just feeling her leg. He recommended two weeks of rest and then we'd see if she needs surgery. I've done my homework and PL just doesn't make sense. It sounds much more like an ACL injury. We're taking her to another vet tomorrow for a 2nd opinion--and this vet specializes in holistic and wellness approaches. Maggie is a lively and active dog...so keeping her on total rest isn't easy. We are using her crate for when we are gone or at night to be sure she doesn't jump or move quickly. For the first few days my husband was carrying her up and down the stairs to go potty (our house is built up and there's no way out without stairs). Now she won't let him do it as she's figured out how to manage everything on 3 legs. I haven't seen any obvious improvement--some subtle signs of putting the leg down, but never walking on it. Our vet did not recommend aspirin or any anti inflamatories. I'll be interested in what the vet tomorrow says. We really want to avoid surgery--I hate to put her through the risk if we can heal her holistically. I have read other posts in which you say that if it is an ACL injury, it can heal on its own in time. How much time? Is there any evidence of good results from acupuncture or massage therapy? Shall I ask the vet tomorrow about medications or supplements? Any additional advice? Thanks for your help.

Answer
Update on ACL or Patella repair?
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Hi - Harriet - How is your dog Maggie - did you get the second opinion yet?  Let me know if I can help with supplements and a light exercise program???
Update please?
thanks
Marie Peppers LPN MA
Ask the Pet Nurse
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Hi Harriet, Please update me tomorrow, after you see the Holistic Vet...
I would be glad to help but Let's see what he/she says....and then I will add my 2 Cents.

BEST wishes
Talk to you tomorrow..

Marie Peppers LPN MA
Ask the Pet Nurse