What is IVDD in Dogs?
Back pain ranges from mild to severe for humans, and it goes the same for our pups! Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is one of the most common causes of back pain in canines. It can impair a canine’s mobility and quality of life. Although common, it’s not something we take lightly here at Canine PT and Me. We’re here to help if you suspect your dog is showing signs of IVDD.
IVDD is a degenerative disease. It affects the intervertebral discs, which are found between the bones of the spine. These discs are like cushions for the spine, allowing for mobility and acting as shock absorbers with movement. IVDD occurs when the discs are weakened and when they are weak, they are more capable of injury. IVDD can be treated conservatively or with surgical intervention and the treatment methods are determined by the severity of the symptoms your dog is experiencing. No matter the symptoms (a lot or a little), it is important to get the right type of treatment from the right healthcare professionals to ensure your dog lives a happy and pain-free life!
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs is a significant health concern that affects the spinal cord and can lead to severe discomfort, pain, and mobility issues. This degenerative condition primarily affects the discs that act as cushions between the vertebrae in the spine. As these discs degenerate, they can herniate or rupture, causing spinal cord compression. Early detection, accurate diagnosis, and effective treatment are crucial for managing IVDD and improving the quality of life for affected dogs. This article delves into the various aspects of IVDD, including its signs and symptoms, types, and the role of physical therapy in recovery.
Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs
A veterinary professional needs to diagnose IVDD with certainty. However, dogs with IVDD typically experience at least one of the following signs/symptoms:
- Back or Neck Pain
- Hunched Posture
- Difficulty or Inability to stand
- Inability to Move/Feel Hind Legs
- Sensitivity to Touch
- Hind Limb Weakness
- Unsteadiness
- Anxious Behavior
- Impaired Bowels and/or Bladder Control
Recognizing the signs and symptoms of IVDD in dogs is essential for early intervention. The condition can manifest in various ways depending on the severity of the disc herniation and the area of the spine affected.
Early Signs
- Reluctance to move, jump, or climb stairs
- Sensitivity or pain when touched along the back or neck
- Changes in posture, such as a hunched back or lowered head
Progression of Symptoms
- Difficulty walking or standing, with signs of unsteadiness or wobbling
- Weakness in the limbs, particularly the hind legs
- Crying out in pain during movement or when picked up
- Loss of appetite and decreased activity levels due to discomfort
Severe Symptoms
- Paralysis or partial paralysis, depending on the extent of spinal cord injury
- Inability to control urination or defecation
- Complete loss of pain sensation in the affected limbs, which can indicate severe nerve damage
Identifying these symptoms early can lead to prompt veterinary attention, increasing the chances of successful treatment and recovery.
Identifying IVDD in Dogs: Type I or Type II?
IVDD in dogs is classified into two main types: Hansen Type I and Hansen Type II. Each type has distinct characteristics and affects dogs differently based on their breed, age, and genetic predisposition.
Hansen Type I:
- Generally (not always) occurs in breeds with short legs
- The outer layer of the vertebral discs become harder over time
- Discs are at an increased risk of injury because of the hardening
- High impact activities like playing fetch or jumping are what trigger Type I IVDD
- It commonly affects younger dogs and chondrodystrophic breeds such as Dachshunds, Frenchies, and Corgis.
- Involves a sudden rupture of the intervertebral disc, leading to acute spinal cord compression.
- The onset of symptoms is usually abrupt and severe, requiring immediate medical attention.
Hansen Type II:
- Generally occurs in other breeds (not as severe as Type I)
- Happens gradually without specific triggering events
- Discs become less flexible over time
- Discs break down, which places pressure on the spinal cord and nerves
- Typically occurs in older, non-chondrodystrophic breeds, such as German Shepherds and Labradors.
- Characterized by the gradual bulging of the intervertebral disc rather than sudden rupture.
- Symptoms develop slowly over time, often leading to chronic back pain and progressive neurological deficits.
Understanding these types helps veterinarians tailor their approach to diagnosis and treatment, ensuring each dog receives the most appropriate care based on their specific condition.
Treatment of IVDD in Dogs
There are two treatment approaches for IVDD: surgery or conservative management. To make the best decision for your dog’s recovery, we highly recommend consulting with both a certified canine rehabilitation therapist and your veterinarian. It may also be beneficial to get a neurological consult with a veterinarian who is board certified in neurology.
Surgical treatment will help relieve compression at the nerve roots and/or spinal cord. After surgery, the dog is often placed in a crate and takes medication to help with the discomfort, swelling, and to avoid re-injury as they are healing.
Conservative management will combine several things: active rest, medication, and rehabilitation. Please note that active rest is different than crate rest!
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Stages of IVDD in Dogs
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs progresses through distinct stages, each characterized by specific signs and symptoms. Understanding these stages is crucial for timely intervention and effective management.
Stage I presents mild pain without any evident neurological deficits. Dogs in this stage may show subtle signs such as reluctance to jump or slight discomfort when moving.
Stage II involves moderate pain accompanied by mild neurological deficits. Dogs may exhibit uncoordinated movements, weakness, or slight difficulty walking.
Stage III is marked by severe pain with more noticeable neurological deficits, including partial paralysis. Dogs might struggle significantly with mobility, requiring immediate veterinary attention.
Stage IV shows severe neurological deficits with paralysis but retains deep pain sensation. At this stage, dogs often lose significant mobility in their limbs.
Stage V represents the most severe form, with complete paralysis and no deep pain sensation, indicating a severe spinal cord injury requiring urgent intervention.
Causes of IVDD in Dogs
IVDD is primarily caused by the degeneration of the intervertebral discs, which act as cushions between the vertebrae in the spinal column. Several factors contribute to this condition:
- Genetics plays a crucial role, and certain breeds, such as Dachshunds, Frenchies, and Corgis, are more predisposed to developing IVDD due to their anatomical structure.
- Age-related degeneration is another significant factor, as older dogs are more likely to experience wear and tear on their intervertebral discs, which can lead to herniation.
- Trauma can precipitate IVDD, especially if a dog suffers from a fall or an accident that impacts the spine.
- Obesity increases the stress on the spine, making overweight dogs more susceptible to developing IVDD.
How Veterinarians Diagnose IVDD in Dogs
Veterinarians diagnose IVDD through a combination of physical examinations and diagnostic imaging techniques. The process typically starts with a thorough neurological assessment to pinpoint the location and severity of the spinal cord injury.
X-rays are often the first imaging technique used, although they primarily show bony structures and may not provide detailed information about the discs or spinal cord compression.
Advanced imaging methods, such as MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) or CT (Computed Tomography) scans, offer more precise insights into the condition of the intervertebral discs, the extent of herniation, and the level of spinal cord compression. These tools are invaluable in confirming the diagnosis and planning appropriate treatment, whether conservative or surgical.
Recovery of Dogs from IVDD
The recovery process for dogs with IVDD varies depending on the severity of the condition and the treatment method chosen.
For mild cases, conservative treatment involving strict rest, pain management, and anti-inflammatory medications often leads to significant improvement. Physical therapy is also recommended to support recovery and strengthen the surrounding muscles.
In moderate to severe cases, surgical intervention, such as decompressive surgery, becomes necessary. This surgery removes the herniated disc material to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. Post-surgery, physical therapy and rehabilitation are critical in helping dogs regain mobility and strength.
The recovery timeline can differ. Some dogs improve within weeks, while others may require several months of dedicated care and physical therapy. Throughout this period, consistent monitoring and adjustments to the rehabilitation plan are essential to ensure the best possible outcome.
Physical therapy, when combined with other treatments, significantly enhances the recovery outcomes for dogs with IVDD, making it an indispensable part of the rehabilitation process.
Canine PT and Me’s integrated approach not only aids in recovery from IVDD but also enhances dogs’ overall quality of life by restoring their mobility and alleviating pain. Our dedicated team supports pet owners throughout the rehabilitation process, ensuring that both the dog and the owner are comfortable and informed.
The Role of Physical Therapy in IVDD Recovery
Physical therapy plays a vital role in the recovery of dogs with IVDD, regardless of whether they undergo surgery. It aims to restore mobility, alleviate pain, and strengthen the muscles supporting the spine, enhancing the overall recovery process.
Laser Therapy:
It uses low-level infrared light to reduce inflammation and pain in the affected areas, promoting faster healing of damaged tissues and nerves.
Therapeutic Exercises:
Tailored exercises help improve balance, coordination, and muscle strength. These can include simple activities like assisted walking, balance exercises, and controlled movements that prevent further injury.
Massage Therapy:
Regular massages can relieve muscle tension, improve circulation, and reduce pain, contributing to the dog’s overall comfort and well-being during recovery.
Hydrotherapy:
Water-based exercises, such as swimming or walking on an underwater treadmill, reduce the stress on the spine while allowing dogs to build muscle strength and improve their range of motion.
FAQs
Can a dog recover from IVDD without surgery?
When is surgery recommended for dogs with IVDD?
Will IVDD reoccur?
What triggers IVDD?
IVDD can be triggered by genetic predisposition, age-related disc degeneration, trauma, or excessive strain on the spine.
How to prevent IVDD in dogs?
Preventing IVDD involves maintaining a healthy weight, providing regular, controlled exercise, and avoiding activities that place undue stress on the spine, especially for high-risk breeds. Limiting the amount of jumping on/off furniture, in/out of cars, and running up/down stairs can help reduce pressure on the spine.
What can I do to help my dog recover faster from IVDD?
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