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Extreme
caution needs to be exercised in considering chiropractic
therapy for a dog.
In general, chiropractic therapy is contraindicated
for a chondrodystrophic dog (Dachshund, Beagle,
Basset Hound, Shih Tzu, Pekingese, Lhasa Apso,
etc.) with clinical signs suggestive of degenerative
intervertebral disk disease (IVDD).
There
is a big difference between a chondrodystrophic
dog and a human with a "bad disk". Poor
understanding of the pathophysiology can lead
to treatments appropriate for a human being applied
to dogs with catastrophic results. Unfortunately,
I have seen cases where chiropractic therapy has
caused loss of deep pain sensation. |
The
ideal treatment for a dog with IVDD depends on the degree
of disk material that has herniated (ruptured) and is
compressing the spinal cord.
Advanced imaging of the spine (MRI/CT/myelogram) allows
not only for a diagnosis of IVDD, but determines the
degree of spinal cord compression. If the degree of
compression is severe enough, to facilitate a quicker,
more complete recovery, swift surgical management is
ideal. If advanced imaging does not demonstrate severe
spinal cord compression, medical management has a greater
chance of benefit.
If advanced imaging and/or surgery is not feasible,
medical management can be attempted. However, chiropractic
therapy is NOT an advisable component of medical management
for a chondrodystrophic dog with clinical signs suggestive
of degenerative intervertebral disk disease (IVDD).
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