Can a Slipped Disc in a Dog Heal Itself? A suspected slipped disc in a dog can be very worrisome for owners. A vet is always the first port of call if you suspect your dog has back pain and discomfort but then what. What care will your dog need and can a slipped disc in a dog heal itself?
So What is a Slipped Disc?
Each of your dog’s vertebrae have padding in between known as discs. These are a spongy texture and contain a jelly-like substance. When they are healthy they cushion and strengthen the joint and allow flexing and extending to occur. But when they are unhealthy, the jelly-like substance can harden causing the disc to rupture and protrude, placing pressure on the nerves. This results in pain and sometimes paralysis, usually of the hind end. Discs can also be damaged as a result of a traumatic event such as a road traffic accident.
Symptoms
- Weakness
- Pain
- Loss of coordination
- Paralysis
- Lameness
- Faecal or urinary incontinence
- Loss of sensation in the leg
Symptoms can vary greatly depending on which nerves are being compressed and the severity of the compression.
Diagnosis
Your vet will need to diagnose your dog with a slipped disc. It’s tricky to diagnose with an x-ray so your vet may want to do an MRI, a myelography or a CT scan. These tests will show what is causing the symptoms and which joint is affected.
Treatment
Surgery
Sometimes an operation is needed to remove part of the disc that is causing the problem and to help prevent reoccurrence of the injury. The prognosis is good for animals that still have pain sensation in their legs.
Non Surgical Treatment
This is recommended when:
- This is the first time the animal has had back pain
- The animal has a medical condition that contraindicates general anaesthesia
- Or if the animal has minimal spinal cord compression
What is recommended:
- Cage rest for at least 4 weeks
- Drugs prescribed by your vet for pain relief and anti inflammatories
- Regular vet check ups
- Dog Chiropractor Treatments
- Physiotherapy
Can a Slipped Disc in a Dog Heal Itself?
Provided the dogs have sensation in their hind limbs they often make a good recovery. But they may always have a weakness to that area and about a third suffer a relapse at some point in their lives. They can also suffer from long term side effects such as hind end weakness.
If you are worried about your animal’s health please contact your vet as your first port of call.
Book a McTimoney Canine Chiropractic Treatment
Areas covered in UK: Worcestershire and surrounding counties.
Book a McTimoney Canine Chiropractic Treatment or Call Emily Walters on 07983 565 438
