Lumbosacral Disease in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

You need to read this article if you’re a dog owner. Lumbosacral disease is a debilitating spinal cord disorder that can cause paralysis in the hind legs. Dogs with Lumbosacral disease often have difficulty standing or walking and may exhibit signs of pain. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and physical therapy. Early diagnosis is important for the best possible outcome.

Lumbosacral Disease in Dogs: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment

What is Lumbosacral disease (LSD)?

Lumbosacral disease (LSD) is an umbrella term used to describe a variety of disorders that affect the lumbar and sacral spine of dogs. Several factors, including age-related degeneration, trauma or injury, congenital defects, and infections, can cause this condition. 

Causes of Lumbosacral Disease in Dogs

There are several potential causes of lumbosacral disease in dogs. Age-related degenerative changes in the disks between vertebrae may cause the disks to wear out or bulge outward into the spinal canal. Trauma or injury can also lead to damage along the spine, which may result in LSD. Certain breeds are more prone to developing this condition due to their anatomy or genetic predisposition. Congenital or birth defects could also make your pet more likely to suffer from LSD than others of his breed. Finally, infections such as diskospondylitis can also bring on lumbosacral disease in some dogs. 

Common Causes Of Lumbosacral Disease In Dogs 

• Age-related degeneration 
• Trauma or injury 
• Congenital defects 
• Infections

Common Signs and Symptoms of Lumbosacral Disease in Dogs 

The most common symptom associated with the lumbosacral disease is pain – usually seen as lameness, reluctance to move around and/or aggression when touched in certain areas along the spine. Other symptoms include trembling or weakness when trying to stand up; difficulty with walking; scoliosis (curvature); an arched back; loss of balance; bladder control problems; and nerve deficits affecting a limb or part of the body (i.e., paralysis).  

Common Signs & Symptoms Of LumboSaceral Disease In Dogs

• Pain (lameness & reluctance to move)   
• Trembling or weakness when standing up             
• Difficulty walking                
• Scoliosis                     
• Arched back                   
• Loss of balance                
• Bladder control problems            
• Paralysis

Diagnosing Lumbosacral Disease in Dogs 

To diagnose LSD accurately, your veterinarian will perform a complete physical exam, take X-rays, and conduct blood work if needed. Imaging tests such as CT scans may be conducted if further analysis is necessary. Your vet may also perform a neurological examination by testing reflexes, paying close attention to any tenderness along the lower back area when palpated and observing gait abnormalities during movement both at rest and while walking/running/jumping etc.

Treatment Options for Lumbosacral Disease in Dogs 

Treatment for lumbosacral disease depends on its type and severity of it. It generally consists of anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), muscle relaxants, corticosteroids and other pain relievers (opioids). Physical therapy may also help improve mobility for those suffering from mild forms of this disorder. However, it should only be done under the supervision of a professional therapist specialising in canine physical therapy techniques. Surgery may be recommended for more serious cases where significant damage along the spine causes nerve dysfunction or paralysis that cannot be corrected through medication alone. And finally, supportive care such as exercise restrictions, physiotherapy sessions at home. Massage therapy sessions with specialized canine therapists have also been shown to improve the quality of life for those suffering from severe cases of lumbosacral disease.  

Wrap Up

Lumbosacral disease is a painful and debilitating condition that can cause paralysis in the hind legs. Treatment options include medication, surgery, and physical therapy. Early diagnosis is key to ensuring the best possible outcome for lumbosacral disease in dogs, so if your pet exhibits any of the symptoms mentioned earlier, consult your veterinarian immediately.

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