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SPINAL MANIPULATION

A LONG, HEALTHY, LOVING LIFE FOR YOUR PET STARTS HERE.

Are you wondering how to treat your pet’s arthritis, hip pain or back pain? Hopewell Animal Hospital is proud to offer Traditional Chinese Veterinary Medicine as an option for our patients. The best way to to treat arthritis in dogs or cats and help to ease joint pain is through Spinal Manipulation. Our certified spinal manipulation veterinarians can help ease your pet’s pain and improve flexibility & mobility which results in improved or cured health problems.

 

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Spinal Manipulation

Spinal manipulation philosophy is based upon the relationship of the spinal cord to the nervous system of the entire body. It primarily involves the manipulation of the spinal cord but can also involve manipulation of the leg joints and skull, strengthening or stretching muscles, and post manipulation exercise. Most animals show no signs of pain or discomfort during therapy.

Professional spinal manipulation can help ease pain, improve flexibility and mobility, and even enhance organ function. Spinal manipulation therapy can also promote healing and improve the range of motion in dogs injured during sporting events.

We evaluate the function and structure of the spine, extremities, and skull. Based on the examination and the pet’s clinical history, subluxations (vertebrae and joints that are out of alignment or abnormally positioned) are manipulated back into normal position by using a short thrust that is applied very specifically in the correct direction.

Because of the expertise required for this technique, spinal manipulation therapy should only be performed by a qualified veterinarian. Dr. Scheck is certified by the International Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Association and has completed more than ninety hours of postgraduate training.

Spinal manipulation is effective If your pet is suffering from:

  • Arthritis
  • Hip Dysplasia
  • Lameness
  • Back Problems
  • Some Traumatic Injuries
Spinal Manipulation

Does Your Pet Suffer from Any of These Conditions?

Symptom:

  • Vomiting
  • Diarrhea
  • Constipation
  • Poor Appetite
  • Unusual Weight Loss or Gain
  • Other Gastrointestinal Issues

A standard poodle we have treated had a several-year history of weight loss, intermittent vomiting and diarrhea, and inconsistent appetite. She responded beautifully to a home-cooked diet created on TCVM principles and has thrived for many years.

Symptom:

  • Coughing
  • Congestion and Wheezing
  • Runny Nose and Eyes
  • Respiratory Issues

A young adult cat being treated for asthma with steroids and bronchodilators, which both have relatively serious side effects, was still having coughing episodes and intermittent difficulty breathing. After three sessions of acupuncture and the addition of an herbal combination, his cough was gone. His occasional asthma attacks responded well to individual acupuncture treatments.

Symptom:

  • Anxiety or Depression
  • Obsessive Behaviors
  • Sudden Change in Behavior

We treated a puppy that was rescued from a southern state and had experienced early life trauma. This puppy was extremely nervous and reluctant to interact with people. Modifying his diet and the addition of an herbal combination calmed him and allowed him to mature into a confident, stable dog.

Symptom:

  • Itching
  • Losing Hair
  • Wounds

Self-inflicted “lick granuloma” wounds respond well to a series of local acupuncture treatments. The acupuncture decreases local inflammation/pain/itchiness and allows the areas to heal.

We treated a dog with a traumatic stab wound (impaled by a stick) who experienced excessive bleeding and swelling. Acupuncture assisted wound comfort during treatment, and an herbal combination stopped bleeding and promoted healing at the site.

Symptom:

  • Chronic Pain or Stiffness
  • Unable to Jump on Furniture
  • Difficulty with Stairs/Getting into the Car
  • A General Slowdown of Activity

We treat a large number of older dogs with arthritis who experience these types of symptoms. We have found that they respond wonderfully to acupuncture and herbal formulas, which allow them to regain a healthy, active lifestyle again. Or, if your pet is experiencing acute pain due to a traumatic injury or suddenly starts limping, has swelling, or is uncomfortable when touched, they can also benefit from acupuncture and herbal formulas.

Symptom:

  • Seizures and Trembling
  • Stumbling/Unable to walk (paralysis)
  • Unsteady Walking/Dragging Toes/Falling

Several seizure patients that had limited response to medications have been well maintained with the addition of acupuncture and herbal combinations. Numerous paralyzed patients have been able to walk on their own again after a series of acupuncture treatments, which may take from one to six months or more.