Primary Blog/Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Why does it happen? What do I do? How do I prevent it?

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD): Why does it happen? What do I do? How do I prevent it?

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) in dogs is a condition where the discs between the vertebrae of the spine deteriorate or herniate, leading to pain, nerve damage, and potentially paralysis.
These discs in the spine act as cushions, and when they degenerate, they can press on the spinal cord or nerves, causing severe discomfort and mobility issues.

Why Does it Happen?
Can My Dog Develop IVDD?

Genetic Predisposition

The first question that is usually asked- Is intervertebral disc disease in dogs is genetic? And the answer to that is yes.
​Chondrodystrophic dog breeds or breeds that have short legs, and long spines such as Dachshunds, Basset Hounds, Shih Tzus and Bulldogs like the French Bulldog, are genetically predisposed to IVDD due to their unique body structures and disc composition.

Age Factor

IVDD in dogs can happen at any age, but being older does have a significant impact.
As dogs age, their spinal health deteriorates. Over time the discs in your dog's vertebrae lose their elasticity and water content making them less resilient and more prone to damage leading to spinal compression.

In some cases, dogs develop disc calcification as they get older. This is when the inner core of the disc hardens due to mineral deposits. The calcification increases the chance of disc herniation.
​While these are the two most popular age-related causes, the general accumulation of wear and tear paired with slower healing increases the likelihood of IVDD.

Weight Factor

Excessive body weight puts additional stress on the spinal discs and other joints, increasing the rate of degeneration and chances of herniation. Excessive fat tissue also causes a low-grade systemic inflammation that can slow down the healing rate leading to the accumulation of daily wear and tear.

Traumatic Injuries

Acute trauma or accidents, such as falls or poor jump landings, can cause immediate disc herniation or damage, leading to IVDD.

Types of IVDD in Dogs

Hansen Type I

Type I IVDD is  characterized by the acute herniation of the intervertebral disc material into the spinal canal. This condition primarily affects chondrodystrophic breeds like Dachshunds, Beagles, and Shih Tzus, which have a genetic predisposition to early disc degeneration.

In Hansen Type I IVDD, the center of the disc (nucleus pulposus) becomes calcified and loses its cushioning ability. Over time, this calcified material can suddenly burst through the outer layer of the disc (annulus fibrosus) and compress the spinal cord or nerves. This can result in sudden and severe symptoms, including:

  • Intense pain
  • Weakness or paralysis in the limbs
  • Difficulty walking or inability to move
  • Loss of bladder and bowel control

Hansen Type II

Type II IVDD is characterized by the gradual, chronic degeneration and bulging of the intervertebral discs. Unlike Type I, which involves sudden herniation, Hansen Type II develops slowly over time and primarily affects non-chondrodystrophic breeds, such as German Shepherds, Labrador Retrievers, and Doberman Pinschers.

​In Hansen Type II IVDD, the outer layer of the disc (annulus fibrosus) gradually weakens and bulges into the spinal canal, causing compression of the spinal cord or nerve roots. This type of IVDD results from the slow degeneration of the disc's structure rather than an acute rupture. Symptoms often develop gradually and may include:

  • Mild to moderate pain
  • Progressive weakness in the limbs
  • Difficulty walking or wobbling gait
  • Loss of coordination
  • Decreased activity levels

How Do I Know If My Dog Has IVDD?

The signs of your dogs IVDD, can vary depending on the severity and location of the affected discs. But here are a few telltale signs you can look out for to check if your dog has IVDD.

Back Pain: Most dogs with IVDD may exhibit signs of pain such as reluctance to move, hunching of the back, or yelping or whimpering when touched or lifted.

Stiffness: They may have difficulty or hesitation when getting up, jumping, or going up or down the stairs. This stiffness can be commonly seen in your dog's neck and in the hind legs.

Abnormal Gait: They may walk with a wobbly gait, may drag their hind limbs, or may prefer one limb over the other.

Loss of Coordination: They may have trouble maintaining balance and may stumble, or show incoordination in their movements. In severe cases, paralysis in one or more legs, loss of bowel and bladder control may happen.

These symptoms overlap with many other degenerative joint health issues dogs face. If you do spot any of the above symptoms, it is best to take your pet to the Vet to accurately diagnose the cause as an accurate diagnosis is key to effectively managing degenerative diseases.

Your Vet will perform a thorough physical examination to evaluate the dog's posture, gait, and response to touch. They may even perform assessments, such as:

Medical History: Gathering information about your dog's symptoms, the onset, and progression will help in understanding the clinical picture and rule out other potential causes of similar symptoms.

Imaging Studies: X-rays provide initial information, but they are often followed by more advanced imaging techniques such as a Myelogram (contrast dye study) or an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) to obtain detailed images of the spinal cord and intervertebral discs. The tests help visualize disc herniation, degenerative changes, and the extent of spinal cord compression.

Neurological Assessment: Your veterinarian may also perform a neurological examination to assess your dog's movement ability, reflexes, muscle strength, sensation, and your dog's response to stimuli. This evaluation helps determine the location and severity of spinal cord or nerve root involvement.

What To Do If You Have a Dog With IVDD?

The conventional treatment options are divided into three main categories- conservative, medical and surgical and depend on the severity of the condition and the specific clinical signs.
​The goal of treatment is to alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and manage neurological deficits and in most cases your Vet would build a multimodal treatment plan.

Conservative Management

A conservative treatment and physical therapy approach in exclusivity is only considered in cases of mild disc herniation and when dealing with the early stages of IVDD, but it is always used along with other medical and surgical options as it boosts the efficacy of the other treatments. Here are a few your Vet would suggest:

Rest and Confinement

Dogs with mild IVDD may benefit from strict rest and limited physical activity to allow the body to heal naturally and reduce the risk of further disc herniation. Strict crate rest and restrictions on high-impact movement are recommended.

Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation

Physical therapy helps strengthen muscles, improve coordination, and reduce the risk of further injury. Key components of physical therapy for dogs with IVDD include:

Passive Range of Motion (PROM):
Passive range of motion exercises are generally suggested. They involve gently moving your dog's limbs and joints through their natural range of motion without any active participation from the dog. PROM helps maintain joint flexibility, prevent muscle contractures, and improve circulation.

Active Range of Motion (AROM):
Active range of motion exercises are those that encourage your dog to move their limbs independently. AROM exercises help improve muscle strength, and joint stability while preventing muscle atrophy and boosting your dog's mobility.

Hydrotherapy:
Hydrotherapy is one of the most effective therapies. when dealing with an IVDD dog. They refer to exercises performed in a controlled pool or underwater treadmill. The water makes dogs float or more buoyant which reduces the weight-bearing stress on the joints, making it easier for them to exercise and build strength. The water also provides gentle resistance, which helps improve muscle tone and endurance.

Heat and Cold Therapy:
Your veterinary rehabilitation specialist may use this combination to manage pain and promote healing as heat therapy helps relax muscles and alleviate pain, while cold therapy helps reduce inflammation and swelling.

Low-Level Laser Therapy(LLLT):
Cold laser therapy or low-level laser therapy works on a cellular level through a process called photobiomodulation. A low-intensity laser light is applied to the affected area to increase the production of adenosine triphosphate (ATP), which supports cellular repair and regeneration.

Electrotherapy:
There are many forms of electrotherapy and the one that is most employed in the case of IVDD, especially for acute IVDD is Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS). TENS works by delivering a low-level electrical current through electrodes placed on the skin to block pain signals from reaching the brain, reducing pain perception and providing relief.

Environmental Modifications:

Here are a few additional things you can do to help your dog in their day to day life. 

Home Exercise Program: You can ask your veterinary rehabilitation specialist to give you a home exercise program and to teach you exercises and techniques that you can do at home to support your dog's progress and maintain their mobility.

Orthopaedic Beds: Orthopaedic beds are designed to provide additional support. The thick memory foam conforms to your dog's body and helps in alleviating pressure on the dog's spine and joints. If you are looking to get your dog an orthopaedic bed, get one with a low profile with a no-slip bottom to make it easier for them to get on and off. A comfy bed also makes crate rest more comfortable.

Weight Management: If you have an overweight dog, develop a plan with your vet to bring their weight back down to a healthy one. Excess weight adds more pressure on the joints and can accelerate degeneration.

Environmental Enrichment: The changes in lifestyle, pain and restrictions on movement can make your dog anxious. Adding a calming supplement, puzzles and soft play activities(if your dog has a very mild case of IVDD) can greatly boost their brain health and smoothen the course of your dog's recovery.

Medical Management

Medical management of IVDD involves using medications  to alleviate symptoms, reduce inflammation, and improve the dog's quality of life. This approach is often suitable for dogs with mild to moderate IVDD or those who are not candidates for surgery. Key components of medical management include:

Pain Management & Anti-Inflammatory Effects

If your dog suffers from IVDD, you would know that this condition can cause extreme pain. Pain medication, such as nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), corticosteroids and other analgesics, are prescribed to alleviate pain and improve the dog's comfort.

Nerve Pain Relief & Muscle Relaxation:

Some dogs with IVDD experience neuropathic pain and muscle spasms and they can further exacerbate pain. Medications like gabapentin may be used to target nerve pain, relieve muscle tension and promote relaxation.

Joint Supplements

Since IVDD primarily affects the spinal discs and the surrounding tissues rather than the joints, the primary focus of treatment is not usually supplementation, but they have beneficial effects on overall joint health. Joint supplements typically contain ingredients such as glucosamine, chondroitin, and omega-3 fatty acids or fish oil, which are believed to support cartilage health and joint function.

Pre- and Post-Surgical Management:

In cases where surgical intervention is required for severe IVDD, medications are often used before and after the procedure to manage pain, inflammation, and prevent complications.

Surgical Management

Surgical management of IVDD is considered when conservative treatments are not effective or when the condition is severe. The choice of surgery depends on the location, severity, and specific circumstances of the disc herniation.

Hemilaminectomy

Hemilaminectomy or Decompressive Surgery is the most common surgical procedure for IVDD and is often used for Type I IVDD. It involves removing a portion of the vertebra to access and remove the herniated disc material to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerves.

Discectomy

Discectomy is a less invasive surgical option for certain types of disc herniation. It involves creating small openings in the outer layer of the affected disc to remove the herniated material and decompress the spinal cord and nerve roots. 

Laminectomy

Laminectomy involves removing a part of the lamina (the bony arch of the vertebra) to relieve pressure on the spinal cord. This is less common but may be used in certain cases.

Spinal Stabilization

In cases where there is instability or excessive movement in the affected vertebrae, stabilization procedures may be performed. This usually involves Fusion Surgery where adjacent vertebrae are fused in order to stabilize the spine and prevent further movement. This may include using plates, screws, or bone grafts..

Prevention of IVDD in Dogs

While IVDD cannot always be completely prevented, there are certain measures you can take to help reduce the risk or the severity of the condition.

Weight Management

Your dog's weight plays a critical role when it comes to developing joint issues. Maintaining a healthy weight is crucial for reducing stress on the spine and intervertebral discs. Obesity can increase the risk of IVDD and exacerbate its effects. Ensure your dog maintains a balanced diet and regular exercise to prevent excessive weight gain.

Avoiding Excessive Stairs or Jumping

Discourage or limit activities that involve excessive climbing up and down stairs or jumping from heights. These actions can put stress on the spinal column and significantly increase the risk of disc herniation. Consider using ramps or stairs with gentle inclines to help your dog navigate elevated surfaces.

Regular Exercise

Regular exercise helps keep the muscles supporting the spine strong and promotes overall fitness. However, it's important to avoid high-impact activities, excessive jumping, and rough play that may strain the back and potentially lead to disc injury. Consult your veterinarian to determine the appropriate exercise routine for your dog's breed and individual needs.

Proper Lifting and Support

When lifting or carrying your dog, especially small or susceptible breeds, provide proper support to their back and hind end. Avoid lifting them by their front legs or putting unnecessary strain on their spine.

Regular Veterinary Check-ups

Routine veterinary examinations allow for early detection of any potential signs of IVDD or related issues. Regular check-ups help monitor your dog's overall health, including their back and neurological status.

Providing a Supportive Environment:

Use orthopedic beds or supportive mattresses to provide proper cushioning and reduce pressure on the spine while your dog rests.
Ensure Proper Nutrition. A diet rich in nutrients that support joint health, such as omega-3 fatty acids, glucosamine, and chondroitin, can help maintain healthy cartilage and overall spinal health.
Keep food and water bowls in easy accessible spots and raise the height of the bowls if you dog is taller to prevent them from bending too much and causing strain on their neck and spine. 

Life expectancy of dogs with IVDD

The life expectancy of dogs with IVDD can vary widely depending on several factors, including the severity of the condition, the age of the dog, the presence of neurological deficits, the type of treatment received, and the dog's overall health.

For dogs with mild IVDD and no significant neurological deficits, especially if treated promptly and effectively, the life expectancy can be normal, and they can lead a full and healthy life. With conservative management, such as rest, medication, and physical therapy, many dogs can recover from mild IVDD episodes and resume normal activities.

In more severe cases of IVDD, especially when neurological deficits are present and require surgical intervention, the life expectancy can still be good. Surgery aims to relieve pressure on the spinal cord or nerve roots, and with proper post-operative care and rehabilitation, many dogs can regain function and enjoy a good quality of life.

However, it's important to note that IVDD can be a progressive condition, and dogs who have experienced one episode of IVDD may be more prone to future episodes. Recurrence of IVDD is more likely in certain breeds with a genetic predisposition or other risk factors.

In some cases, IVDD can lead to permanent neurological damage or complications, which may impact the dog's mobility and overall quality of life. In these situations, the life expectancy may be affected.
In these cases, complete to partial paralysis of the hind legs are common. It can be hard for your pup to move about and do basic things like poop. Assistive devices like wheelchairs can significantly improve the quality of life and give your dog their freedom to move about and explore the world around them.

Severe cases, or cases where IVDD surgery hasn't had a huge impact, normal tasks like eating, walks, and going to the bathroom can become challenging both for your dog and you as they will require assistance in all their tasks. You can have your veterinary rehab facility teach you how to hold your dog, carry them from place to place and help them carry out their bodily functions without causing any harm to your dog's spine.

To ensure the best possible outcome and life expectancy for dogs with IVDD, early detection, prompt veterinary care and appropriate treatment is required. And don't skimp on those physical therapy exercises!

And if you have a dog that is predisposed to developing IVDD, regular veterinary check-ups and proactive measures like using a good quality joint support supplement, preventing movements like jumping on and off furniture and stairs, weight management can help keep IVDD at bay entirely.

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