Discospondylitis is a bacterial or fungal infection of the intervertebral disc and adjacent vertebrae in the spine. This can occur when bacteria or fungus reaches the spine through blood flow from an infected area, or from a wound very close to the spine. Dogs who are immunocompromised are more at risk for developing discospondylitis. When the disc is inflamed due to infection, it expands and presses on the spinal cord, causing pain and/or neurologic symptoms.
Symptoms of discospondylitis include back pain, stiffness, muscle weakness, and paralysis. The symptoms generally progress over time. Dogs may also show systemic signs of infection such as lethargy, loss of appetite, fever, and weight loss.
Discospondylitis is diagnosed through imaging such as x-rays, CT, or MRI. Your vet may also recommend bloodwork or collection of cerebrospinal fluid to determine the exact type of infection. On radiographs we may see loss of bone at the endplates between each vertebrae. See below:
Discospondylitis is treated with the appropriate antibiotic or antifungal medication. Usually a long course is needed to clear the infection from the spine, and it is imperative that treatment is not stopped early. In severe cases or cases that don’t fully respond to medication, surgery can be performed to clean out the area and decompress the disc.
In rehab, the first thing we focus on is decreasing pain and inflammation around the site of injury. We utilize electrotherapy, laser therapy, ultrasound therapy, and pain medications to reduce pain and inflammation. We then focus on relaxing the muscles surrounding the spine and improving sensation and proprioception. Next we work on improving stability, starting with positional balance exercises and then progressing into dynamic movements. Once the dog has sufficient stability, we incorporate gait training and improving functional transitions. Lastly, we strengthen the muscular stabilizers around the spine to prevent future injuries. We can help make recommendations and fit your pet for assistive devices such as diapers, belly bands, slings, boots, harnesses, and wheelchairs.
