How to Treat Spondylosis Deformans in Dogs Through Ayurveda
Abstract
Like humans, dogs are also vulnerable to problems in the spine. Problems associated with the spine are much more common than most dog owners may realize. Spinal problems in dogs are of various types and signs and symptoms depend on the cause and severity of the disease. This article will recapitulate spondylosis in dogs which is a common condition and may or may be a part of normal aging. In the majority of cases, spondylosis deformans is a normal part of aging and dogs do not have any outward signs at all. Below you will have a look at details of the disease condition and how to fix this issue and improve the quality of life of your dog with the help of Ayurveda.
Introduction
In dogs spondylosis is also called spondylosis deformans and is a degenerative condition of the spine that leads to the development of bone spurs along the vertebrae. Usually, aged dogs get affected with this condition but spondylosis can also happen as a result of injury. Spondylosis deformans commonly affects older dogs, as with age bones and joints have endured persistent stress that leads to degeneration and instability that leads to formation of bony spurs in order to regain stability in those areas.
In the normal spine there is an individual vertebra with space in between that consists of an intervertebral disc. In spondylosis deformans vertebral spine is characterized by presence of bony spurs, or osteophytes along the edges of the spine. This bony spur develops in a single spot on the spine and commonly there will be multiple bony spurs in different areas of the spine. Spondylosis is a painful condition and affects the flexibility and range of motion for the dog. Spondylosis deformans most commonly occurs along the thoracic vertebrae, lumbar spine, or lumbosacral spine. Rarely, the bony spurs develop between adjacent vertebral bones and result in fusion of the vertebrae.
Causes
Spondylosis deformans is known to be a chronic condition and is related to aging. It often results as a secondary problem that is associated with degeneration of intervertebral discs. Following are the causes of spondylosis deformans in dogs:
- Increasing age: With age the spine bears wear and tear from repeated lifetime movements and in order to compensate for the damage there is formation of bony spurs.
- Injury: injury to the spine results in spondylosis
- Body weight: Body weight influences the development of degenerative diseases that includes spondylosis. Increased weight will put pressure on the affected area and make it worse.
- Genetics: The dog with certain genetic make-up is more susceptible to development of spondylosis deformans. For example German Shepherds, Boxers, or dogs having long backs are more prone to development of spondylosis deformans.
Symptoms
The dog may or may not have any sign or symptoms of spondylosis deformans. It is diagnosed incidentally. If bony spurs occur near a nerve, there can be pain. The dog may have restricted movement depending on the location of bone spurs. With the involvement of nerves there could be neurologic impairment.
Following are the signs that you should be noticed in the dog:
- Changes in movement: Dog starts avoiding jumping or rolling over, he starts dragging hind legs due to the rigid back.
- Changes in walk: That smooth swaying from side to side is lost; dog is not able to move back freely, and there is limping and lameness due to stiffness.
- Changes in comfort level: Dogs become sensitive to touch on their back due to pain; this is because the bony spur puts pressure on the nerves along the spinal cord.
Prevention
In particular there is no prevention of the spondylosis deformans, but there are few things you can do to prevent the disease to certain extent.:
- Keep your pet active and fit which is helpful in age related changes
- Maintain a healthy weight of your dog
- Pay attention to the nutrition and caloric requirements of your dog
- Take your dog for a regular walk
Diagnosis
Spondylosis is an incidental finding when X-ray is done for any other reason. Following tests are done if the dog is in pain or if there are signs of nerve damage:
- X-ray- Bone spurs also appear in inflammatory lesions, so in order to thoroughly assess the spine, multiple radiographs may be needed to rule out other causes.
- Myelogram- spinal fluid is injected with special dye and radiograph is taken
- MRI
Ayurvedic treatment
Dogs are an important part of families today and owners are no less than parents to them, so it is the responsibility of parents to give their beloved dog a healthy and disease free life. People often encounter health issues of dogs but giving them right treatment is crucial and Ayurveda solves the purpose effectively. Ayurveda is a science of life, the major focus of Ayurveda is on preventive and curative healthcare. Ayurveda is also well known for Pashu Chikitsa, meaning Ayurvedic Veterinary medicine and in Atharvaveda section VI Ayurvedic Veterinary medicine has been mentioned and is being practiced long before the emergence of present day veterinary medicine. Ayurvedic herbs contain a variety of bioactive compounds and do not have any side effects and thereby keep the animal safe and healthy.
Planet Ayurveda’s Treatment
Planet Ayurveda is a renowned Ayurvedic Herbal product manufacturing company and is serving humankind in a favorable way with incredible herbal remedies. Planet Ayurveda has global reorganization for its services and efficacious results with herbal products. The products prepared by Planet Ayurveda are 100% natural, free from additives, chemicals, and preservatives. Along with the treatment of human beings, Planet Ayurveda also treats animals with its marvelous herbal remedies. Following are the various herbal remedies that are used in Spondylosis in dogs.
1. Yograj Guggul
Yograj guggul is a classical polyherbal formulation and is available in tablet form that contains Guggul (commifora mukul), Chitrak (Plumbago zeylanica), Ajwain (carum copticum), Pippali (piper longum), Vidang (Embelia ribes), etc. This remedy rejuvenates and gives strength to the skeletal and neuromuscular system and is a traditional medicine for painful joints and muscles.
Dosage: 2 tablets twice daily
2. Joint aid plus
Joint id plus is available in capsule form and is herbal formulation that contain standard extract of Nirgundi (vitex negundo), Shallaki (Boswellia serrata), Sonth (zingiber officinale), Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera), and Guggul (commiphora mukul). It is an effective problem for joint problems that helps in reducing pain and swelling. It helps the joint to regain the lost strength. The degeneration of joints as in spondylosis is effectively managed by this marvelous remedy.
Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily
3. Boswellia curcumin
Boswellia Curcumin contains effective anti-inflammatory ingredients like Shallaki (Boswellia serrata) and Curcumin (curcuma longa). It promotes blood circulation to the joints hence improves joint health and improves flexibility. It gives a remarkable benefit in cases of degeneration of bones in spondylosis. Limping gait due to nerve pinching is also improved.
Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily
4. Ashwagandha capsules
Ashwagandha capsules are made from standard extract of Ashwagandha (Withania somnifera). It is a useful remedy in debilitating conditions. It is a natural rejuvenator that helps in maintaining proper nourishment of tissues, majorly muscles and bones. It gives strength to bones and keeps the degeneration that occurs with age at bay.
Dosage: 2 capsules twice daily
Contact my assistant to provide you the costing/ordering and delivery information at – costing.planetayurveda@gmail.com or call +91-172-5214040
Conclusion
Spondylosis is a degenerative disease that reduces the range of motion and results in stiffness, pain and wobbly gait. This deformity affects the quality of life of your beloved pet as there are limitations to his movements. Ayurvedic remedies mentioned in the article are a boon to the spondylosis treatment for your dog and he can have a good life as these herbal remedies stop the symptoms from becoming severe and help in preventing pain. Ayurvedic herbal treatment lets you and your dog enjoy life to the fullest.
