A dog's spinal cord is a long, tubular bundle of nerve fibers that stretches from the brain to the lumbar region of the back. Because it is so important, it is encased within the vertebral column to protect it from damage. The vertebral column is comprised of individual bony sections called vertebra. Between each vertebra is a rubbery cushion called a disc, which prevents contact with other vertebra. The disc is filled with a thick fluid-like substance. When the disc is damaged, whether through trauma or degeneration of its outer shell, the fluid can leak out and put pressure on the spinal cord, causing pain and even paralysis. To prevent further damage, it is imperative that you contact your veterinarian if your dog shows any symptoms of a ruptured disc.
-
Symptoms
-
A disc rupture can occur quickly, because of trauma such as a car accident or simply jumping off a piece of furniture. In such cases, the pain or paralysis will come on suddenly. If the rupture is due to degeneration of its covering, the pain will appear over a period of time---weeks or months. If your dog displays a reluctance to come when called or to jump up on furniture, a hunched back or whimpering when touched along the back, it may indicate a problem with her spine and she should be checked by your veterinarian.
Diagnosis
-
A veterinarian will perform an exam, and if warranted, will take x-rays of the back. A disc rupture doesn't always show up on an x-ray so he may also do a myelogram. During a myelogram, the veterinarian injects dye around the spinal column and takes x-rays of the area. A disc rupture will show up as a break in the line of dye.
Conservative Treatment
-
Treatment depends on the severity of the rupture. If a dog is showing no signs of incoordination or paralysis, your veterinarian will likely recommend cage or crate rest. Restricting exercise for four to six weeks often will allow the rupture to heal itself.
Surgical Treatment
-
If limiting exercise does not alleviate the pain or paralysis, your veterinarian my recommend surgery to remove the ruptured material and relieve the pressure on the spinal cord. According to Theresa A. Fuess, Ph.D., Information Specialist at the University of Illinois, College of Veterinary Medicine, the prognosis for full recovery following this surgery is very good.
Medical Treatment
-
Researchers at Purdue University have developed a medical method for treating canine spinal injuries such as a disc rupture. It consists of injecting a liquid polymer called polyethylene glycol (PEG) into the affected area. If the injection is given within 72 hours of the rupture, it can prevent most dogs from suffering permanent spinal damage.
Alternative Therapies
-
Acupuncture can provide pain relief for a ruptured disc. It can be used instead of surgery or in addition to surgery. Chiropractic manipulation of the spinal column or massage therapy can help with discomfort caused by a ruptured disc. However, it should not be performed during an acute phase of the rupture---only after the rupture has sufficiently healed due to rest or surgical repair. If your veterinarian is not trained in these techniques, ask him to recommend a qualified practitioner.
-