IVDD and Back Pain in Dogs and Suitable Dog Back Braces

Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)

Intervertebral disc disease in dogs (IVDD) is a condition where the cushioning discs between the vertebrae of the spinal column either bulge or burst (herniate) into the spinal cord space. These discs then press on the nerves running through the spinal cord causing pain, nerve damage, and even paralysis. Breeds of dog that are predisposed to dog IVDD include the Dachshund, Beagle, Basset Hound, and Shih Tzu.

Symptoms and Types

Made up of a gelatinous substance surrounded by a thick outer layer, intervertebral discs are basically the shock absorbers of the spine. There are two types of disc herniation seen in dogs: Type I and Type II, of which Type II generally has less severe signs and symptoms. IVDD symptoms may include:

• Unwillingness to jump
• Pain and weakness in rear legs (lameness)
• Crying out in pain
• Anxious behavior
• Muscle spasms over back or neck
• Hunched back or neck with tense muscles
• Reduced appetite and activity level
• Loss of bladder and/or bowel control (urinary and fecal incontinence, respectively)

Causes In Type I, common in the neck region of smaller breeds, discs develop a hardening (or calcification) of the outer layer. This damages the disc, allowing it to break down easier. Any forceful impact such as jumping and landing can cause one or more disc(s) to burst and the inner material to press on the spinal cord. With Type II herniation, the discs become hardened and fibrous over a long period of time and eventually break down, bulge out, and compress the spinal cord. When the nerves of the spinal cord are compressed, the nerve impulses are not able to transmit their signals to the final destination in the limbs, bladder, etc. If the damage is severe enough, paralysis and loss of bladder and bowel control can occur.

Depending on the location of the disc that is bulging, signs occur anywhere in the body from the neck to the rear legs. Diagnosis Examination by your veterinarian will include a complete neurological exam, which will help identify where in the spinal cord the injury is located. Plain X-rays may show an abnormal area in the spine. However, because the spinal cord does not appear on X-rays, special imaging may be necessary to locate the source of the injury. Once such procedure, called a myelogram, injects a special dye into the spine, which surrounds the spinal cord and allows it to appear on X-rays. This test requires the animal to be put under anaesthesia. In some cases, further testing such as an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scan can also be used to locate where the nerves are being pinched, which is necessary for surgical repair. If your dog is suffering from IVDD or any other form of dog spine problem, pain, or weakness, have a look at our Wiggleless back brace for dogs. The WiggleLess dog back brace helps to stabilize the spinal column and restricts unwanted movements that may exacerbate underlying spinal injuries. Whether you have an overweight dog that needs extra support, an elderly dog with an aching back, a dog diagnosed with IVDD related back problems, or an overly active dog who would benefit from a dog back brace. It can also be helpful after IVDD surgery, as part of post-surgery conservative management. Consult with your vet if your dog's had IVDD surgery. WiggleLess is a vet-recommended product.