Intervertebral Disc Disease (Aka. “Slipped Disc”)
Watching your pet struggle with pain that affects their daily life can be deeply distressing, and managing these challenges — particularly in severe cases — can quickly feel overwhelming. At Holistic Vet Care, our fully qualified vets are here to support you and your pet. We offer gentle, natural, whole-body therapies designed to reduce discomfort, improve mobility, and enhance quality of life.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
What is IVDD?
Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), also known as a slipped disc, is a painful condition that occurs when the discs between the vertebrae of the spine begin to degenerate.
As these discs lose their ability to absorb shock, they may bulge or rupture, putting pressure on the spinal cord, leading to pain and mobility issues. Breeds such as Dachshunds and French Bulldogs which have disproportionately short limbs, are prone to early disc degeneration, increasing their risk of disc rupture.
IVDD most commonly affects the mid-back, but it can occur in other areas of the spine as well. It can occur suddenly (Type I), or gradually (Type II).
Holistic treatment
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular veterinarian, as we do not offer surgical or conventional medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be a valuable part of supporting the health and recovery of pets with IVDD, alongside their conventional treatment plans.
With acupuncture and carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine, we aim to support pets with IVDD in the following ways:
- Reduce pain and inflammation.
- Improve blood circulation to aid healing.
- Help support tolerance of medications and overall comfort during treatment.
- Support appropriate nerve signalling.
Research in human medicine suggests that acupuncture may influence nerve growth factors involved in nerve healing and function. However, further research is needed in veterinary patients.
Through these approaches, our qualified vets aim to support your pet throughout their treatment journey to help improve their comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Even if your pet is scheduled for surgery, we can help support pre-operative stability and comfort and assist with post-operative recovery and wellbeing.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, food therapy is foundational in addressing underlying “patterns of disharmony” (the way disease presents within the individual). We aim to support the body’s natural balance with tailored whole-food diets, rather than heavily processed pet foods which may contribute to inflammation in some pets.
For IVDD cases, we often recommend whole foods and a low-carb diet to help reduce inflammation, while also managing weight to limit pressure on the spine.
Every pet is unique, however, and our goal is to tailor dietary recommendations to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis, stage of disease, and overall constitution. Specific guidance can be discussed with one of our qualified vets during your consultation.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy is a gentle, non-invasive, supportive treatment that most pets find very soothing. With laser therapy, we aim to support pets with IVDD in the following ways:
- Help reduce inflammation.
- Help alleviate pain by stimulating endorphin release.
- Help reduce swelling by encouraging lymphatic drainage.
- Support natural healing by…
- encouraging blood circulation to the affected tissues.
- stimulating collagen production.
- promoting cellular reproduction and proliferation.
While not a cure, laser therapy can be a valuable part of a holistic care plan by helping to stimulate the body’s natural healing processes.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What are common clinical signs of IVDD?
The signs of IVDD depend on both the location and severity of the disc problem. For instance, neck (cervical) IVDD often causes neck pain and weakness in the front and/or hind limbs. Whereas mid-back (thoracolumbar spine) IVDD usually affects the hind limbs, causing weakness, incoordination, and sometimes incontinence.
Severity is often graded on a scale of 1–5, ranging from mild discomfort to complete paralysis.
For mild to moderate cases, common clinical signs include:
- Back or neck pain, seen as a hunched posture, sensitivity to touch, or yelping
- Muscle spasms in the neck or abdomen
- Limited mobility and reluctance to move
- Behavioural changes, such as lethargy, reduced appetite, or anxiety (shivering, panting)
With severe cases, there are likely to be neurological deficits, such as:
- Significant weakness, including dragging limbs or inability to support weight
- Loss of coordination, often described as a “drunken sailor” gait
- Urinary and faecal incontinence
- Complete paralysis of one or more limbs
How is IVDD typically treated by conventional vets?
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular vet, as we do not offer surgical or medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Conventional treatment for IVDD depends on the severity of the condition and can range from medical management to emergency surgery.
Medical management typically involves pain relief and strict rest to reduce inflammation and allow healing. Physical therapy is often recommended to help speed up recovery and support mobility.
In more severe cases, where a disc rupture is causing paralysis or significant nerve compression, surgery may be necessary to correct the herniated disc. After surgery, pets usually continue with medical management and restricted activity for 6–8 weeks. While surgery can greatly improve comfort and function, it’s important to note that some neurological damage may be permanent, even with the best care.
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, healing, and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
