Intervertebral Disc Disease
What is IVDD?
The intervertebral discs are gelatinous sacks that sit in the spaces between the vertebrae and provide cushioning and shock absorption. The spinal cord, a delicate bundle of nerves surrounded and protected by the vertebrae, carries incoming and outgoing messages between the brain and the rest of the body. Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is the degeneration of these discs. Different forces and conditions can lead to swelling (bulging) or rupture (herniation) of the discs causing them to move up into the spinal cord space causing injury.
Injury to the cord can be caused by compression (bulging) or concussion (herniation). The extent of the nerve damage is determined by a) the type of force applied to the cord, b) the amount of force applied to the cord and c) the length of time the force is applied to the cord. There are two major categories of IVDD. Hansen Type I is characterized by early disc degeneration and disc herniation with sudden onset of symptoms. Hansen Type II is disc degeneration as a part of the normal aging process.
- Discs cushion vertebrae, absorbing shock.
- Spinal cord transmits messages, protected by vertebrae.
- IVDD causes disc bulging or rupture, leading to injury.
What causes IVDD?
Although a traumatic event such as a small jump or fall may have triggered the compression or concussion of the spinal cord, IVDD is a chronic degenerative condition. Sudden herniation (Hansen Type I) is mostly found in middle aged chondrodystrophic breeds like Dachshunds, Corgis, Bulldogs, Pugs and Bassett. Neck herniations are common in small breeds like Shih-Tzus, Beagles, Pekingese and Poodles. Bulging discs (Hansen Type II) are more often found in older non-chondrodystrophic breeds like German Shepherds, Labradors and Dobermans. In either type, the neurological damage is progressive and often permanent.
- IVDD is a chronic, degenerative condition.
- Hansen Type I affects chondrodystrophic breeds.
- Hansen Type II affects older, non-chondrodystrophic breeds.
What are the symptoms of IVDD
Initial
• Severe pain
• Unwillingness to jump
• Uncoordinated gait (if walking)
• Weakness in limbs
• Anxious behavior
• Crouched posture
Intermediate
• Muscle spasms in back and/or neck
• Hunched back
• Tense neck muscles
• Moderate pain
Advanced
• Reduced appetite
• Reduced activity
• Loss of bladder or bowel control
How is IVDD Diagnosed?
After a thorough neurologic exam and gait evaluation, your veterinarian or veterinary neurologist will order diagnostic tests such as bloodwork, urinalysis, x-rays, CT (Computed Tomography; x-rays used to create detailed cross-sectional images) or an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging; uses magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the interiors of organs and tissues) are used to rule out other disorders or diseases like arthritis, spinal stenosis, stroke, tumors, cysts and infections.
- Neurologic exam and gait evaluation are essential.
- Diagnostic tests include bloodwork, x-rays, CT, MRI.
- Tests rule out disorders like arthritis and stroke.
Your dog has IVDD. How we can help.
We focus on enhancing the quality of life for dogs with IVDD and their pet parents. We start by evaluating how your dog manages their daily activities (ADLs) and identify practical solutions for issues like incontinence and mobility. Through gentle strength and balance exercises, swimming, and massage, we work to restore as much mobility as possible. We also recommend the right mobility equipment to support both your dog and you, ensuring a smoother daily routine. Additionally, we offer compassionate guidance to help you navigate the emotional challenges of your dog's mobility issues, providing support every step of the way.
- Focus on quality of life and ADLs
- Identify the right equipment at the right time
- Provide emotional support for you