Our Summary

This study aimed to understand long-term pain in dogs that have had surgery for a specific kind of spinal disc herniation. In humans, this type of surgery can often lead to chronic nerve pain, but there hasn’t been much research on whether this is also the case for dogs. The researchers used a measurement called Mechanical Sensory Thresholds (MSTs) to try and determine the dogs’ pain levels. They compared the MSTs of healthy dogs with those who had undergone surgery for spinal disc herniation.

FAQs

  1. What is the main purpose of this study on dogs with spinal disc herniation?
  2. How did the researchers measure the dogs’ pain levels post-surgery?
  3. How were the Mechanical Sensory Thresholds (MSTs) used to compare the pain levels between healthy dogs and those who underwent surgery?

Doctor’s Tip

One helpful tip a doctor might tell a patient about spinal decompression is to follow a comprehensive rehabilitation program that includes physical therapy and exercises to strengthen the muscles supporting the spine. This can help maintain the benefits of the spinal decompression treatment and prevent future spinal issues. Additionally, maintaining a healthy weight, practicing good posture, and avoiding activities that may exacerbate spinal issues can also contribute to long-term relief.

Suitable For

Patients who are typically recommended spinal decompression surgery are those who have a herniated or bulging disc in the spine, causing symptoms such as chronic back or neck pain, sciatica, numbness or tingling in the extremities, and weakness in the muscles. These patients may have tried other conservative treatments such as physical therapy, medication, or injections without relief. Spinal decompression surgery is often recommended when these conservative treatments have not been successful in alleviating the patient’s symptoms.

Timeline

Before spinal decompression:

  1. Patient experiences chronic back or neck pain, numbness, tingling, or weakness in the arms or legs.
  2. Patient undergoes diagnostic tests such as MRI or CT scan to identify the cause of the symptoms.
  3. Patient consults with a spine specialist or neurosurgeon to discuss treatment options.
  4. Spinal decompression surgery is recommended as a treatment option for conditions such as herniated discs or spinal stenosis.

After spinal decompression:

  1. Patient undergoes spinal decompression surgery, which involves removing a portion of the damaged disc or bone to relieve pressure on the spinal nerves.
  2. Patient may experience some pain and discomfort immediately following surgery.
  3. Patient undergoes physical therapy to improve strength and flexibility in the spine.
  4. Patient experiences gradual improvement in symptoms such as reduced pain, improved mobility, and increased function.
  5. Patient follows a post-operative care plan to prevent future spine issues and maintain overall spinal health.

What to Ask Your Doctor

  1. What is spinal decompression and how does it work?
  2. Am I a good candidate for spinal decompression therapy?
  3. What are the potential risks and side effects of spinal decompression therapy?
  4. How many sessions of spinal decompression therapy will I need?
  5. What is the success rate of spinal decompression therapy for treating my specific condition?
  6. Are there any alternative treatments or therapies that may be more effective for me?
  7. Can spinal decompression therapy help alleviate my symptoms and improve my quality of life in the long term?
  8. How long will it take to see results from spinal decompression therapy?
  9. What can I do to optimize the results of spinal decompression therapy?
  10. Are there any lifestyle changes or exercises I should incorporate into my routine to support the benefits of spinal decompression therapy?

Reference

Authors: [No authors listed] Journal: Tierarztl Prax Ausg K Kleintiere Heimtiere. 2020 Oct;48(5):377. doi: 10.1055/a-1205-9663. Epub 2020 Oct 21. PMID: 33086417