Watch the incredible case study of Dillon, a Miniature Dachshund who recovered from IVDD with laser therapy, regaining motor function and comfort after conservative treatment and hydrotherapy.
Case Courtesy of Ellis Wall, Four Paws Fitness, Barkway, Buntingford, UK
Signalment
Canine, 5Y 6M, MN Miniature Dachshund "Dillon"
History
Hemilaminectomies had been performed on T12-13 8 months and T13-L1 5 months prior to the current presentation. Both surgery reports stated that the left pelvic limb was affected greater.
Diagnostics and Exam Findings
Dillon presented with non-ambulatory paraparesis. Deep pain was present bilaterally with reduced to absent withdrawal reflexes in his right pelvic limb. Pain was noted in his mid-lumbar region. After discussion with their neurologist Dillon’s owners decided to pursue conservative treatment.
Laser Treatment Details
Pain/trauma setting was used with the large on contact treatment head over the thoracic and lumbar spine to deliver 9 J/cm2
Frequency of Treatment
Three times the first week, two times the second week, and once the third week
Other Treatments
Gabapentin and rest. Hydrotherapy sessions performed prior to presentation and stopped when non-ambulatory, then restarted after recovery.
Outcome and Comments
By treatment 2 (48 hours after presentation), motor function was returning in both rear legs.
“Dillon had a waggy tail throughout, and his owners worked so hard to get him back up on
his paws.”