Veterinary Spinal and Extremity
Manipulation
(Chiropractic) |
Spinal and Extremity Manipulation (Chiropractic treatment) is a modality used to prevent
and correct many health problems in animals. This procedure is not meant to replace
traditional veterinary medicine and surgery but rather is used as a tool in the prevention
and treatment of many medical conditions seen in the various species of animals.
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The basic premise of Spinal and Extremity Manipulation is to restore normal motion and position
to vertebral segments and extremity joints. Lack of normal motion results in problems with the
nervous system and all organs that have nerve supply.
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Common signs of decreased spinal motion may include stiffness, pain, alterations of gait,
organ dysfunction, behavioral changes, and muscle atrophy. These signs may start mildly
and then progress to dramatic symptoms.
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The causes of decreased spinal motion may include trauma, conformational traits, birth,
confinement, collars, age, and use.
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When motion or positional problems (subluxations) are identified in the spine or extremities,
a correction or adjustment is attempted I order to restore normal alignment. This adjustment
is a short raid thrust onto a vertebrae in the direction that will replace it into its normal
position.
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A typical appointment will involve taking a history of previous health problems in the
animal, previous radiographs and laboratory work-ups when appropriate, an examination of
the animal and the animal’s movement, and examination of the spine and extremities both
statically and with motion, and examination of the reflexes, palpation for pain and muscle
atrophy, and adjustments to those areas of the spine and extremity joints that demonstrate
abnormal motion and/or position.
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Follow up appointments may be needed if treating specific conditions.
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Routine examination and adjustment of the spine and extremities may prevent or delay
the onset of disease and again conditions.
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