Degenerative Myelopathy (DM) is a slowly progressive neurological disease of the spine. It is a genetic condition but more prevalent in larger breeds. German Shepherds, Boxers and Corgis are the most affected.
What Happens?
As the spinal cord begins to deteriorate, there’s a reduction in nerve signals to the muscles in hind limbs causing weakness. This is the first visible sign of DM. This condition is often compared to ALS in humans.
Symptoms
Degenerative Myelopathy comes on slowly as the dog ages but the primary symptoms are weakness and incoordination. Degenerative Myelopathy is not a painful condition. In early and mid-stages you may notice swaying, weakness, difficulty standing up, knuckling, loss of tail movement and incontinence. Eventually, they become weaker and lose function in the back end completely. It is important to monitor the progression of DM as in its final stages their body becomes paralyzed.
Treatment
There is no cure for DM and is fatal once it reaches the diaphragm. However, using physical therapy from the beginning stages through its progression, rehab can prolong the effects and dramatically improve your pups mobility and quality of life regardless of DM. You can even get them a wheelchair to improve your pups’ mobility as this condition progresses! The most important thing you can do is watch their symptoms and pay attention to their body.
~Canine PT and Me Team