Veterinary Spinal Manipulation (VSM) also known as veterinary/animal chiropractic, is a medical therapy that is used to treat and maintain the health and normal function of the nervous and musculoskeletal systems. It follows the same principles and practice as chiropractic medicine practice in humans. It involves the use of manual adjustments and manipulation to realign the spine and improve joint function. These techniques are designed to address issues that may be causing discomfort or dysfunction and can help reduce pain, improve mobility, and enhance overall health.

 

VSM is a specific treatment that corrects subluxations. Subluxations are misaligned vertebrae that are stuck or unable to move correctly causing pain, stiffness and/or neurological issues. When the movement of the vertebrae or bones of the spine are restricted, the animal will not have normal function or flexibility of the spine and/or their limbs. Subluxations commonly occur in the spine secondary to acute injury, over exercise and chronic orthopedic disease, but can affect other joints as well. Subluxations can cause poor performance, stiffness, pain, decreased flexibility and function of the muscles and nerves.

 

VSM uses chiropractic adjustments to correct subluxations or misalignment of the spinal column and joints to relieve pain and restore normal range of motion and neurologic function to the area being treated to stimulate a natural healing response and return the body to normal function as quickly as possible without harmful side effect.

 

Chiropractic adjustments can treat neck pain, back pain, sacroiliac pain, and tail pain that occur secondary to hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, disc prolapse, cancer, and others. Early chiropractic treatment can prevent the development of more serious musculoskeletal conditions in the future. Veterinary spinal manipulation is a safe and effective treatment option for a wide range of pets, including dogs, cats, and horses. It is widely used in performance animals (e.g. agility dogs and dressage horses) to keep them in tip top shape.

 

It is important to note that veterinary spinal manipulation should be used in conjunction with regular veterinary care, not as a replacement for regular conventional veterinary care.

 

If you are considering VSM for your pet, it is important to consult with a certified practitioner that has experience treating animals. They will be able to assess your pet’s specific needs and develop a treatment plan that is tailored to their individual needs.