How does chiropractic care work?
Chiropractic care focuses on correcting abnormalities in the alignment of your pet's musculoskeletal system. The process releases pressure and tension so trapped nerves can be freed and your pet's nervous system can function properly again.
Increased blood flow is another positive effect of chiropractic care in dogs and cats. It enables oxygen and other important nutrients to circulate to all the major organs and reach any areas that require healing.
The Science Behind Spinal Adjustments for Pets
The spine is a crucial part of the nervous system. It houses the spinal cord, which transmits signals between the brain and the rest of the body. When vertebrae (form the lumbar part of the spine) become misaligned, it can put pressure on the nerves, leading to pain, discomfort, and impaired function.
Spinal adjustments correct these misalignments, alleviating pressure on nerves and promoting better communication within the body.
Conditions That Can Be Treated With Canine & Feline Chiropractic Care
Dogs and cats can suffer from a wide range of different health issues during the course of their lifetime. Chiropractic care can effectively alleviate symptoms and treating the underlying cause of the following conditions:
- Arthritis
- Chronic pain
- Degenerative disc disease
- Gastrointestinal problems
- Healing after traumas, specifically tissue healing
- Hip dysplasia
- Incontinence
- Mobility issues, such as difficulty going up or down stairs
- Muscle spasms
- Nerve problems
- Reproductive issues
- Separation anxiety
- Skin problems, such as allergic dermatitis and ringworm
- Stiffness and tension
- Stress caused by travel
- Travel sickness
- Respiratory problems
Benefits of Spinal Adjustments for Dogs & Cats
Chiropractic care for dogs and cats has the following benefits:
- Improved Mobility: One of the most immediate benefits of dog and cat chiropractic adjustments is enhanced mobility. Pets suffering from stiffness, arthritis, or injuries often experience significant improvements in their range of motion after receiving spinal adjustments.
- Drug-Free Pain Relief: Some people are hesitant to give their pets medications that could lead to dependency. Fortunately, chiropractic treatment can stimulate your pet's natural pain-relieving endorphins, reducing or eliminating the need for drugs.
- Alleviating the Underlying Cause of Discomfort: Addressing the root cause of discomfort, these adjustments help alleviate pain without relying on medications, which can have side effects.
- Enhanced Quality of Life: Regular spinal adjustments can lead to a higher quality of life for pets. Improved mobility and pain relief contribute to a more active and enjoyable life, allowing pets to engage in activities they love.
- Prevention of Long-Term Health Issues: Regular health check-ups and adjustments can prevent potential problems from developing into more serious conditions. This proactive approach to health care can save your pet from unnecessary suffering, and you from costly veterinary bills.
What to Expect During a Spinal Adjustment
During a dog or cat's spinal adjustment appointment, one of our veterinarians will perform a preliminary examination to assess your pet's joints, muscles, spine, nervous system, posture, gate, and the alignment of the vertebra to determine the range of motion and level of function. This will also allow the vet to identify any areas of misalignment.
The adjustment itself involves gentle, precise movements to realign the spine. The procedure is typically quick and should not cause your pet any pain. Many pets show immediate signs of relief and improved mobility after the adjustment.
Finding a Qualified Practitioner
It’s essential to seek a qualified professional for spinal adjustments for pets. These practitioners, including our vets at Mill Plain Veterinary Clinic, have extensive knowledge of animal anatomy and physiology. This expertise is vital because the anatomy of pets, particularly their spinal structure, differs significantly from that of humans.
A qualified practitioner understands these differences and can tailor adjustment techniques to suit your pet’s needs.
Note: The advice provided in this post is intended for informational purposes and does not constitute medical advice regarding pets. For an accurate diagnosis of your pet's condition, please make an appointment with your vet.
