What is IVDD?
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a degenerative condition that affects the intervertebral discs of the spine, which serve as shock absorbers between vertebrae, allowing for movement, flexibility, and support. These discs are essential for cushioning the spine and aiding in mobility, but when they deteriorate, the impact can lead to severe pain and mobility issues. IVDD is most often seen in chondrodystrophic breeds—dogs with short legs and long backs, such as Dachshunds, French Bulldogs, and Corgis—who are at increased risk regardless of their age. While it is degenerative and can develop over time, chondrodystrophic breeds tend to display signs much earlier due to genetic predispositions.

There are two main forms of IVDD, classified as Hansen type-I and Hansen type-II. Each type affects the intervertebral discs in a different way.

In Hansen Type-I, the nucleus pulposus, which is the soft, jelly-like centre of the disc, loses its ability to retain water, causing it to dry out and calcify. As the disc becomes hardened and less flexible, it loses its shock-absorbing capacity. Eventually, it becomes prone to rupture with even routine spinal movements. When this happens, the hardened nucleus pulposus can burst through the outer part of the disc, compressing the spinal cord in what is known as a "slipped disc." This compression often leads to pain and, in more severe cases, neurological symptoms. The intensity of the injury depends on factors such as the force of the rupture and the volume of material extruded into the spinal canal. Small, chondrodystrophic breeds are more likely to develop this form of IVDD, but larger dog breeds may also be affected.

In contrast, Hansen Type-II involves a defect in the annulus fibrosus, the tough outer layer of the disc. Here, the annulus fibrosus begins to bulge, pressing against the spinal cord without rupturing. Unlike the sudden onset associated with Hansen Type-I, Hansen Type-II IVDD is a progressive condition, typically occurring in older, larger dog breeds. As the bulge increases over time, the spinal cord experiences gradual compression, leading to symptoms that slowly worsen if left untreated.

What are the Symptoms of IVDD?
Symptoms of IVDD vary depending on the severity and location of the disc damage. Common signs include:

Ataxia: A wobbly, uncoordinated gait resembling a "drunken sailor walk."

Paralysis: Loss of motor control in one or more limbs, ranging from mild weakness to complete paralysis.

Incontinence: Lack of control over bladder and bowel functions due to spinal cord compression.

Lack of Pain Response: Dogs with severe IVDD may not respond to pain stimuli below the injury site, indicating nerve damage.

Hunched Back: Many dogs display a hunched or arched back as they attempt to relieve spinal discomfort.

Changes in Daily Activities: A reluctance to perform normal activities, such as going up and down stairs, exercising, or jumping onto furniture.

Stiffness: Reduced flexibility, particularly after rest, leading to difficulty rising.

Shivering or Trembling: Dogs may shiver or tremble, even in warm environments, as a response to spinal pain.

How is IVDD Diagnosed?
Diagnosing IVDD requires advanced imaging techniques, as regular X-rays cannot fully capture the soft tissue and detailed structure of spinal discs. Veterinarians typically use MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scans to obtain detailed images of the spine. MRI is especially valuable for visualising the exact location and severity of disc compression on the spinal cord, helping vets determine the best course of action for treatment.

How Can IVDD Be Treated?
Treatment options for IVDD depend on the severity of the condition and how significantly it impacts the dog's ability to function. In severe cases, where a dog has lost sensation below the site of the injury, surgery becomes a priority and is often considered a medical emergency. Dogs in this category face a less favourable prognosis, and time is crucial in determining whether any functional recovery is possible. For dogs experiencing paralysis, surgery can improve their chances of regaining mobility and a pain-free life. Dogs who become or remain paralysed have the option of a mobility cart and their owners can assist with bladder expression. This choice is owner dependent and should be based on the dog’s quality of life. 

Dogs with mild to moderate symptoms may respond well to conservative treatment. This approach includes prolonged crate rest to prevent further aggravation of the injury, along with medications to manage pain, inflammation, and muscle spasms. Pain management is essential, as IVDD can be excruciating, and untreated pain may affect the dog’s overall quality of life.

Two primary surgical options are used to address IVDD: fenestration surgery and decompressive surgery.

Fenestration Surgery: In this procedure, a small opening is created in the annulus fibrosus to remove the nucleus pulposus. This less complex surgery is commonly used to prevent future disc extrusions, especially in areas where disc calcification is widespread. Fenestration can be performed alone or in conjunction with decompressive surgery for preventive measures.

Decompressive Surgery: In more severe cases, decompressive surgery is required to physically remove disc material that has extruded into the vertebral canal. This procedure requires specialised training and equipment, as it is a technically advanced surgery. Removing extruded material relieves pressure on the spinal cord, which can significantly improve symptoms and allow the dog to regain lost function.

What Does Recovery Look Like?
Recovery from IVDD varies based on the type and extent of the injury, the treatment chosen, and the individual dog’s response to therapy. Rehabilitation techniques, including clinical massage, physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, and conditioning exercises, play a vital role in a dog’s recovery. These therapies help strengthen weakened muscles, improve flexibility, and promote circulation, which speeds healing and improves outcomes. Home care, such as strict crate rest and supportive bedding, is also crucial to prevent re-injury and manage the dog’s comfort during recovery.

How Can Clinical Canine Massage Help?
Massage therapy can be especially beneficial for dogs with IVDD, as it helps alleviate the secondary effects of restricted movement, tissue damage and crate rest. Key benefits of clinical canine massage for IVDD include:

Improving Muscle Tone: When on crate rest or immobilised due to paralysis, muscles can weaken from underuse. Massage helps stimulate these muscles, preserving tone and preventing muscle wasting.

Relieving Overcompensating Muscles: Pain and discomfort from IVDD can lead to abnormal postures, such as a hunched back, causing certain muscles to overwork. Massage reduces tension in these overused muscles, promoting balance and easing strain.

Increasing Circulation: Massage increases blood flow and lymphatic circulation, bringing fresh oxygen and nutrients to the muscles and tissues. This is essential for dogs on extended crate rest, as improved circulation aids in maintaining muscle health and preventing atrophy.

Rebuilding Atrophied Muscles: In cases of muscle atrophy, where muscles have wasted due to lack of use, massage aids in stimulating and gradually rebuilding these muscles.

Reducing Inflammation: Massage helps decrease inflammation in the affected areas, which can alleviate pain and promote healing.

Speeding Up Natural Healing: By improving circulation and reducing inflammation, massage accelerates the body’s natural healing process, which can be particularly valuable during post-surgery recovery.

Remodel Scar Tissue: By realigning the collagen fibres which make up scar tissue, massage can improve muscle flexibility and range of movement. 

Through these interventions, massage and other rehabilitative therapies offer non-invasive, supportive care that enhances the dog's comfort and contributes to a better quality of life.

Information sourced from

Fitzpatrick Referrals (2015) Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), Fitzpatrick Referrals. Available at: https://www.fitzpatrickreferrals.co.uk/neurology/intervertebral-disc-disease/ 

VSC (2014b) Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), Veterinary Surgical Centers. Available at: https://www.vscvets.com/surgery/neurology-conditions/intervertebral-disc-disease-ivdd 

Hornsby, G. (2018) Intervertebral disc disease and massage - canine massage guild, Canine Massage Guild. Available at: https://www.k9-massageguild.co.uk/intervertebral-disc-disease-massage/