Individual care · Veterinary consent
Spondylosis
Bony growths that form along the spine, often with age.
What it is
Spondylosis deformans describes bony spurs developing along the underside of the vertebrae, sometimes bridging from one to the next. It is often age-related and is frequently found by chance on an X-ray taken for another reason. Many dogs with visible spondylosis show no signs at all; others find it limits how freely their spine moves.
What you might notice
- Stiffness through the back, particularly on rising
- Reluctance to turn tightly, or to look round
- Hesitation before jumping up or down
- A change in how they position themselves to sleep
- Reduced flexibility, more than obvious lameness
These are things owners commonly describe. They are not a diagnosis, and several of them overlap with other conditions — only your vet can tell you what is actually going on.
How massage may help
The bony changes are permanent and massage does not alter them. What it works with is the muscle along and around the spine, which is often tight and overworking to stabilise an area that has become less flexible. Easing that muscular load can make a real difference to how comfortable a dog is day to day, alongside whatever your vet has recommended.
Talk to Shanice about your dog
A diagnosis is only one part of the story. Two dogs with the same condition can need quite different care, depending on their age, temperament, routine and what they love doing. Share your dog’s veterinary history when you enquire and Shanice will talk through whether massage is appropriate for them.
Treatment complements your dog’s veterinary care, takes place in your own home, and requires signed veterinary consent.
Enquire about a session