Cauda Equina Syndrome in Dogs
Cauda equina syndrome commonly known as lumbosacral stenosis occurs at the lumbosacral junction in the lower back.
It is one of the more commonly diagnosed back conditions in dogs..especially the jumpers..
The term lumbo refers to the lumbar vertebrae. These are the bones in the lower part of the spinal column. The term sacral refers to the sacrum, which is the part of the spine that joins the lumbar spine and the pelvis.
Cauda equina syndrome or lumbosacral syndrome is a condition caused by the narrowing of the spinal canal and results in compression of the spinal nerve roots (nerves that exit the spine).
Causes
The narrowing is most often caused by arthritis, less commonly disc herniation. These active dogs put a lot of force on their lower spine, leading to loss of cartilage, new bone formation, and subsequent pain.
Diagnosis
The most common symptom of lumbosacral stenosis is pain. In the beginning you may also notice stiffness leading to difficulty in walking, climbing stairs, getting on furniture, wagging the tail, positioning to defecate, or getting into a car. One or both back legs may become weak. Some dogs will cry out in pain when trying to move. In severe cases, the nerve roots can become so compressed that urinary and fecal incontinence will result.
German shepherd dogs and other large breeds are most commonly affected. It is unusual to see signs in dogs younger than 3 to 7 years of age.
Pain on palpation of this area is the first part of confirming the diagnosis.
X-rays are typically diagnostic in seeing a very narrowed area of the spinal cord.
Treatment
Mild cases often need only supportive treatment, which includes crate rest and anti-inflammatory and pain-relieving medications. If symptoms persist or worsen, or if neurologic signs develop, a surgical procedure may be indicated.
Alternate Options
BACK MASSAGE. Most common is lower back pain in dogs and cats (lumbar spine). Fingertip massage and trigger points—when you feel an especially tight muscle point, use firm pressure with your thumb or forefinger and hold for one minute.
VALERIAN. Another very potent herbal painkiller which is usually used for muscle aches and aches in the bones. The tincture dose is 1 drop per pound twice daily. I have found it very helpful for muscle spasms, such as back pain.
CURCUMIN. 95% curcuminoids with extensive research showing positive benefits for osteoarthritis. Give with fat/piperine. 100mg/10lbs
BOSWELLIA. Boswellic acids – the active components – have strong anti-inflammatory and analgesic properties. May help prevent cartilage loss: 10-20 mg/10 lbs twice daily
CBD has been shown to have potent anti-arthritic therapeutic action, resulting in both joint protection and clinical sign improvement..studies indicate chronic use of CBD has not been shown to elicit negative side effects and does not induce tolerance. Dose: 1mg/10lbs twice daily
