What is it?
The spine is made up of vertebrae separated by intervertebral discs, which act as shock absorbers. In IVDD, these discs undergo degenerative changes and may bulge or rupture into the spinal canal. This compression disrupts normal nerve signalling between the brain and limbs.
IVDD is commonly seen in chondrodystrophic breeds (e.g. Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, Cocker Spaniels), but can affect any breed.
Clinical signs & changes
Clinical presentation varies depending on the severity and location of disc involvement.
Signs may include:
- Spinal pain (yelping, tense abdomen, reluctance to move)
- Reduced willingness to jump, climb stairs or exercise
- Hindlimb weakness or wobbliness (ataxia)
- Knuckling or scuffing of the paws
- Loss of coordinated movement
- Reduced bladder control in advanced cases
- Sudden onset paralysis
Early recognition significantly improves prognosis.
Veterinary diagnosis
Diagnosis is made by a veterinary surgeon through neurological examination and, where indicated, advanced imaging such as MRI or CT.
Treatment may involve:
- Strict cage rest and medication (conservative management)
- Surgical decompression in moderate to severe cases
- Ongoing pain management
Physiotherapy is introduced once veterinary stabilisation has occurred and referral has been provided.
Physiotherapy input
Rehabilitation is essential to optimise neurological recovery and prevent secondary complications such as muscle atrophy and joint stiffness.
A structured physiotherapy programme may include:
- Pain management modalities (e.g. therapeutic laser, PEMF, manual therapy)
- Targeted strengthening of postural and hindlimb musculature
- Proprioceptive retraining to improve limb awareness
- Gait re-education and balance work
- Progressive functional exercise tailored to neurological status
Early, controlled rehabilitation supports improved mobility outcomes and reduces compensatory strain elsewhere in the body.
Prognosis and long term management
Recovery depends on severity, time to treatment and neurological grade at presentation. Some dogs recover fully, while others may require long-term strength maintenance and mobility support.
Ongoing physiotherapy can help:
- Maintain muscle mass
- Support joint health
- Improve quality of life
- Reduce recurrence risk.