The spinal column is composed of many types of tissue. The bony segments are called vertebrae and in between each of these vertebrae are squishy discs that provide support, cushion and provide the flexibility that allows dogs (and humans) to rotate/side bend/etc.
The disc itself is composed of two parts: the fibrous outer shell and the inner “jelly like” center. It is important to understand the components as it impacts the types of IVDD and how we treat them.
Types of IVDD
In general IVDD occurs when the disc presses on the spinal cord and in some cases the nerve roots adjacent to the spinal cord causing pain and neurologic symptoms/dysfunction. These symptoms can range widely – more on that later.
Type 1
Type 1 IVDD occurs when the” jelly like” center of the disc becomes calcified. One wrong jump or ball chase can cause this calcified (hardened) piece of the disc to shoot outward causing compression/bruising. This can happen upward where the spinal cord itself is impacted, or sideways where the nerves exiting the spinal cord are affected. Either way it causes acute (sudden) pain and varying degrees of neurologic dysfunction. In many cases we never even know there was calcification to begin with. It is estimated that 25% of dachshunds will have at least one IVDD episode in their lifetime.
Type 2
Type 2 IVDD occurs when the fibrous outer layer of the disc breaks down and begins to push upward on the spinal cord. This is a slow degenerative process that is in most cases age related. Typically type 2 presents as a slow progression of symptoms over months to years. Type 2 IVDD can be confused with “normal” slowing down or aging, BUT it is not. See below for what to watch for and do not hesitate to ask us or your regular vet if you have any questions or concerns!
But it is only a Frenchie problem…right?
IVDD has a reputation for being a breed specific disease process, and while there are breeds that are more at risk (dachshunds, frenchies, poodles) it is important to understand that it can happen to ANY dog. Additionally type 2 occurs more often in larger dogs like german shepherds, beagles and corgis.
Symptoms of IVDD
The symptoms of IVDD vary widely and largely are dependent on the type of disc disease.
Type 1: If you remember these are the sudden painful types. In many cases a jump off the couch, to catch a ball etc results in a yelp accompanied by symptoms ranging from mild neck pain to a limp, to complete inability to use some or all of their legs.
Type 2: These are slower to progress. They are accompanied by less sudden pain and more generalized weakness/discomfort. Often time dogs seem to lose the ability to know where their feet are. They may drag a toe, trip more, or have odd postures that look uncomfortable (crossed/rotated back legs for example).
It is important to note that the above scenarios are the more common presentations but IVDD can present in a huge number of ways.
Diagnosis of IVDD
The first step for diagnosis IVDD is a physical exam. In most cases this is done by your primary veterinarian. However your rehab provider has also been trained to appropriately screen your pets too! Depending on the severity of symptoms (paralyzed versus mild pain) referral to a neurologist is ALWAYS on the table. Just like in human medicine, specialists are great for focusing on a specific body system. In this case it is the spinal cord and accompanying neurological system. A definitive diagnosis requires specialized imaging of the spinal column, typically a magnetic resonance image (MRI), however spinal radiographs may provide clues or indications of IVDD.
Treating IVDD
Just like any disease, treatment is entirely dependent on the severity of the symptoms. As stated above this can range dramatically and the treatment corresponds appropriately. Mildly affected patients benefit from functional and strength training as well as a pain management plan. More severely affected patients can be candidates for surgical decompression (pressure relieving) of the spinal cord after which rehabilitation therapy is a must! See blog about neuro-rehab post spinal surgery for more information about specifics.
Can we prevent IVDD?
The short answer is no, we cannot prevent developing IVDD. That being said, there are things we can do for our dogs that reduce the chances of them developing IVDD. For type 1 (the sudden painful one) keep your dog strong and flexible. This is especially important if you have an at risk breed for example a dachshund. Many owners elect to do a preventative course of rehab to learn what exercises to do, since flat walks each day doesn’t build strength. Shout out to Newton for starting a strength training program at 2 years old!
For type 2 (the progressive older dog version) strength and flexibility are ALSO important to work on. But since there is a progressive sneaky nature to this type of IVDD getting started early can really help keep our dogs functional for longer. Maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle with high quality nutrition is also important!
While we can’t prevent either type of IVDD, building strength and cultivating a healthy lifestyle can reduce the risk. Early intervention prior to symptoms showing up is key!
Take away points:
An acute (sudden) change in your dog’s pain or ability to walk ESPECIALLY after known trauma is an emergency.
If your dog is diagnosed with IVDD and spinal surgery is not an option, there ARE options for them. Rehabilitation and functional training are the mainstays. Ask us more!
Slowing down, difficulty to get up, limping, etc is NOT always normal in our aging pets. Regular evaluations especially mobility assessments can help spot problems!