What You Need To Know About IVDD
Back pain can be mild to downright debilitating, and it’s no different for our furry friends. At Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness in West Caldwell, we specialize in treating intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), one of the most common causes of back pain in canines that can lead to reduced mobility and quality of life. But just because it’s common does not mean it should be taken lightly! Sometimes symptoms are much more serious, so it is always important to act sooner rather than later if you suspect your pup may have IVDD.
Anatomy and Function
Intervertebral discs are found between most of the bony vertebrae that make up the spine. Composed of fibrocartilage, they are like cushions for the spine, acting as shock absorbers and enabling mobility. You can think of the disc as similar to a jelly donut. It has a fibrous outer layer termed the annulus fibrosus, and a gelatinous, jelly-like inner layer termed the nucleus pulposus. A degenerative process, IVDD refers to weakened discs that are more likely to rupture or herniate, which is what happens when that jelly-like substance leaks into the area of the spinal cord and connected nerve roots.
Types of IVDD in Dogs
Two types of intervertebral disc disease affect dogs:
Type 1 IVDD
Type 1 IVDD typically affects chondrodystrophic breeds, or those with abnormally short legs. The outer fibrous layer of the discs becomes more rigid and less flexible over time. This puts the disc at increased risk of the jelly-like substance spilling out where it doesn’t belong. High-impact activities like playing fetch or jumping are what trigger this rupture or herniation.
Type 2 IVDD
Type 2 IVDD typically affects nonchondrodystrophic breeds. In this case, the process is much more gradual, and there is no triggering event to initiate symptoms. Similar to type 1, discs become harder and less flexible, but this happens over a longer period of time. Eventually, the disc breaks down, and that jelly-like substance bulges out, placing pressure on the spinal cord and nerves. Oftentimes, the signs and symptoms are less severe than those seen in type 1.
Signs and Symptoms of IVDD in Dogs
Pressure from the disc on the spinal cord can disrupt nerve signals, causing symptoms ranging from mild to severe. Dogs with IVDD typically experience one or more of the following signs and symptoms:
- Back or neck pain
- Hunched posture
- Sensitivity to touch
- Anxious behavior
- Unsteadiness
- Inability to stand
- Hind limb weakness
- Inability to move the hind legs
- Inability to feel the hind legs
- Impaired bowel and/or bladder control
Diagnosing IVDD
If you suspect that your dog may be suffering from IVDD, don’t delay in making an appointment with your veterinarian. They will review the past medical history and do a physical examination to get a better idea of what may be causing your pup’s discomfort. A combination of imaging may also be done to rule in or out certain conditions and confirm the diagnosis of IVDD. Thorough diagnostics are essential for determining the appropriate plan of care, as the signs and symptoms of IVDD are similar to those of other diseases, such as meningitis, infection, and vascular issues.
What Breeds Are Affected?
Dogs most commonly affected are chondrodystrophic breeds, such as Dachshunds and Shih-Tzus, especially between the ages of three and six years. Some non-chondrodystrophic breeds, such as German Shepherds and Labrador Retrievers, are also affected, though typically the onset occurs at 8 to 10 years of age. No matter the breed or age, however, obesity remains a risk factor for the development and progression of IVDD.
How Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness Can Help
The good news about IVDD is that in most cases, it is very treatable. Early intervention is key for an optimal outcome, so if your precious pup exhibits one or more of the signs and symptoms listed above, please do not hesitate to get them checked out! No matter the course of treatment you and your vet decide to take, a canine rehab professional will be best able to guide your pup back to better living with more functional mobility and less pain.
For more information or to schedule an appointment at our West Caldwell location, please contact Alpha Animal Rehab & Fitness at (908) 454-2273.