Services

Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy

Veterinary spinal manipulation therapy, or VSMT, is the veterinary equivalent to chiropractic care in humans. It is based in anatomy, neurology, and biomechanics. An adjustment is completed by performing a quick, shallow thrust to a specific joint to improve mobility in the joint. VSMT also includes mobilization, which moves a joint through its range of motion to help increase movement, break up adhesions, and stimulate the nervous system. Both adjustments and mobilization help to improve blood flow to nerves to help improve muscle function and decrease pain

Frequently Asked Questions

Is VSMT painful?

Nope! Most of the time your pet may not even realize when the adjustment is performed. In rare cases, such as rib adjustments, there may be a moment of discomfort but this should quickly resolve. Patients can start feeling the benefits of the adjustments quickly, usually within a few hours.

When may VSMT be beneficial?

• Orthopedic conditions: such as soft tissue injury, dysplasia, and/or arthritis
• Some neurologic conditions
• Recurrent lick granulomas
• Non-infectious urinary issues
• Post sedation or anesthetic procedures (ex: spay/neuter, dental, x-rays, ultrasound)
• Maintenance for athletes/high activity pets
• Comfort care for older patients

When should we NOT do VSMT?

• Immediately after surgery: give the pet 1-2 weeks to recover from surgery before scheduling a VSMT appointment
• Over a fracture site
• Directly over an amputation site (ex: limb, FHO)
• Areas of excessive movement

Can VSMT be done along with acupuncture/rehab/massage?

Yes! In relatively healthy patients, we may be able to combine VSMT on the same day as acupuncture/massage depending on the pet’s patience. Sometimes in older or more compromised patients, we may recommend separating the days they receive VSMT and days for acupuncture/massage so as to not overwhelm the body.

What should I expect after an adjustment?

Your pet may feel some soreness after an adjustment for about 24 hours, similar to muscle soreness we may feel after a hard day at the gym. If the pain is much worse or persists longer than 24 hours please let us know and we can adjust your pet’s treatment plan. In addition, because VSMT stimulates the nervous system which affects the GI tract, there is a chance your pet may pass 1-2 piles of soft stool. If this persists longer than 24 hours, or if it develops into liquid diarrhea, there is likely another underlying cause and we would recommend further work up with your family vet.

How to get started?

During the initial VSMT exam, the doctor will check your pet from head to toe for any areas of decreased movement. The initial exam and adjustments may take slightly longer as the pet gets used to this form of touch and learns to trust us. Depending on the initial exam findings, we may recommend having x-rays taken with your family vet prior to performing any adjustments. Follow up appointments typically go a little quicker as the pet becomes accustomed to the process. Depending on the injury or condition, we may recommend follow up appointments every 2 weeks, and then begin to decrease the frequency over time depending on the pet’s response.

If you are interested in starting VSMT for your animal, please contact Wholistic Paws to schedule your pet's visit today!