Slipped Disc

Our guide has been authored by qualified veterinarians, but should not be taken as substitute for medical advice or professional veterinary consultation. If your pet displays any unusual symptoms, we strongly advise seeking guidance from a veterinarian

Understanding Slipped Disc in dogs

Intervertebral discs are located throughout the spine and act as shock absorbers, allowing flexibility and mobility of the spine. A slipped or herniated disc in dogs, also known medically as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), is a condition where a disc between the vertebrae of the spine tears or bulges out of place. This can then exert pressure on the spine, causing pain, weakness in the limbs, and even paralysis. It’s important to differentiate between acute disc herniation (Type 1) and chronic disc herniation (Type 2) in dogs.

Jango's story

Jango is a young, energetic mixed-breed Pinscher. One morning, when the family's children came to hug him, he cried out in pain as soon as they touched him. When he tried to stand, he couldn't. Jango was quickly rushed to the vet, who immediately suspected an herniated disc. He received painkillers and was referred for a comprehensive neurological examination at a specialist center. After tests, including an MRI scan, Jango was diagnosed with an acute herniated disc in the cervical vertebrae, which, without prompt treatment, could cause paralysis in all four legs. Jango was taken in for emergency surgery and was then transferred to hospitalization for monitoring. Two days after surgery, Jango was already wagging his tail, back to loving life with his human siblings.

Slipped Disc's Causes: Uncovering Triggers

Breed and age – Certain breeds of dogs are much more prone to develop slipped discs due to genetic and structural reasons. Acute disc herniations usually occur in small to medium-sized breeds with short legs and in middle age. Examples include Dachshunds, Shih-Tzus, Bichons, Cocker Spaniels, Corgis, and French Bulldogs. Chronic disc herniations, on the other hand, are characteristic of larger breeds and occur at an older age.
Excess weight or obesity – Dogs with excess weight or obesity are more likely to develop slipped discs due to increased pressure on the spine.
Excessive physical activity – There is also a higher risk during activities that require significant physical exertion such as jumping, twisting, and frequent climbing up and down stairs.
Trauma – Resulting from a car accident or falling from a height can lead to spinal damage.

Recognizing Slipped Disc: Signs and Symptoms

Back pain or stiffness: Reluctance to move and wincing in pain whenever touched or moved.
Muscle weakness or paralysis: In the hind legs or all four legs, due to compression of the spine.
Difficulty walking or standing: Including hopping and limping.
Loss of bladder or bowel control: Incontinence or loss of control.
Loss of appetite
Fatigue

Slipped Disc Diagnosis: How it's Identified

Veterinarians typically use a combination of physical examination, neurological assessment, and imaging tests to diagnose slipped discs in dogs. During the physical examination, the veterinarian examines the dog’s gait and stability, palpates the back to locate any pain or abnormalities, and checks reflexes and sensation in the limbs. Suppose the veterinarian suspects a slipped disc based on the physical examination. In that case, they may recommend additional imaging tests, such as CT or MRI, to confirm the diagnosis and determine its location and severity. If there is clear suspicion of a slipped disc without significant impairment including limb paralysis or loss of sensation, the veterinarian may not immediately recommend advanced imaging but will begin treatment and monitoring.

Treating Slipped Disc: Options and Approaches

Treatment options for slipped discs in dogs depend on the severity of the condition and the extent of damage to the spine:

Conservative treatment in mild cases – Treatment includes strict rest in a crate or small confined space to limit the dog’s movement, along with pain relievers and anti-inflammatory medications. The goal is to allow the body to repair the damage in the affected area and prevent worsening of the condition. Typically, this involves a period of about a month to two months, after which the dog is expected to return to full activity.
Surgery in more severe cases – If the dog shows severe neurological signs such as extreme pain, paralysis, loss of bladder control, or loss of sensation in the limbs, the veterinarian may recommend surgery to alleviate the pressure on the spine.
Physical therapy as part of the rehabilitation process – After surgery or conservative treatment, physical therapy can help strengthen the supporting muscles of the spine, improve flexibility, and reduce the risk of future injuries. Physical therapy may include exercises, massage, and hydrotherapy.

Slipped Disc: Surprising Facts

About 80% of dogs with slipped discs will heal thanks to conservative treatment, while 20% may require surgery. The success rate of this surgery is about 77%.

Dogs with a history of slipped discs are at increased risk of recurrence of the disease, with about 30% experiencing a second episode within the first year after the initial diagnosis.

Using a collar during daily walks may exert pressure on the neck and spine, increasing the risk of a slipped disc. A harness distributes pressure more evenly on the chest and back.

Vet's Tip: Dealing with Slipped Disc

If you’ve been asked to perform what’s known as “crate rest” for your dog due to suspicion of a slipped disc, it’s important to keep them as calm and quiet as possible during their healing period. This means limiting their movement and activity to the minimum possible to prevent worsening of the pressure on the spine. Sometimes, tranquilizers can be added during the restriction period. It may seem harsh and excessive, but crate rest can sometimes prevent complex, dangerous, and costly surgeries.

Price Tag

Neurological diagnosis

$4,000-$7,000

Conservative medical treatment

$100-$150/mo

Surgery for disc herniation repair

$6,000-$9,000

Rehabilitation

$300-$900

Latest in Research and Treatments

Surgery for disc herniation repair is a life-saving treatment. The downsides are that it’s invasive, carries risk, and is expensive. Today, there’s hope for using a new and simple procedure as an alternative to surgery – targeted injection of enzymes that break down the herniated disc material. This is an initial experimental procedure, so all we can do is cross our fingers and hope that it can indeed replace complex surgeries in many cases.