Degenerative Myelopathy – Holistic Veterinary Care
One of the conditions I work with in my practice is Degenerative Myelopathy (DM). Degenerative Myelopathy is a progressive, incurable neurological disease that affects the spinal cord in dogs. It is marked by the slow breakdown of the white matter in the spinal cord. This mainly happens in the thoracolumbar area. It affects nerve function and leads to loss of coordination. Eventually, it can cause paralysis in the hind limbs.
This can be a scary diagnosis, but there are ways to manage care, extend life expectancy, and improve quality of life.
Cause and Pathophysiology:
DM is an autoimmune disorder. It is believed to be like amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS). ALS is also called Lou Gehrig’s Disease in humans. It is mainly linked to a genetic change in the SOD1 gene (Superoxide Dismutase 1). This change is believed to harm nerve cells and white matter in the spinal cord.
- White matter in the spinal cord contains myelinated nerve fibers responsible for transmitting motor and sensory signals. In DM, this tissue progressively degenerates.
- The disease usually begins in the middle to lower spinal cord. It causes loss of coordination (ataxia) in the back legs and can lead to paralysis.
Breeds Commonly Affected:
While DM can occur in many breeds, some are genetically predisposed due to higher carrier rates of the SOD1 mutation. These include:
- German Shepherds (most commonly affected)
- Boxers
- Pembroke Welsh Corgis
- Siberian Huskies
- Chesapeake Bay Retrievers
- Bernese Mountain
- Rhodesian Ridgebacks
- Standard Poodles
- Golden Retrievers
It typically manifests in dogs over 8 years old, although some cases may occur earlier.
Symptoms
DM progresses slowly over several months to a couple of years. Key clinical signs include:
Early Stages:
- Subtle hind limb weakness
- Dragging of rear paws (scuffing nails)
- Eye or nose discharge
- Swaying or wobbling (ataxia)
- Difficulty rising or jumping
Intermediate Stages:
- Marked hind limb weakness
- Knuckling of paws
- Incontinence (occasionally)
- Muscle atrophy in the hind limbs
Late Stages:
- Complete paralysis of the hind limbs (paraplegia)
- Possible involvement of forelimbs in very late stages
- Difficulty swallowing and respiratory compromise in end-stage disease
Diagnosis:
There is no definitive test to diagnose DM in a living dog, so diagnosis is typically one of exclusion. Veterinarians may use:
- Genetic testing for the SOD1 mutation (to determine if the dog is at risk)
- MRI or CT scans (to rule out other spinal diseases like disc herniation, tumors)
- Spinal fluid analysis
- Electromyography (EMG) to assess nerve function
A definitive diagnosis can only be confirmed post-mortem by histopathological examination of the spinal cord.
Treatment:
There is no cure for Degenerative Myelopathy. However, supportive care and physical therapy can slow progression and maintain quality of life. I can help.
I use a combination of bodywork treatments as well as recommendations of diet, herbs/Chinese herbs, and supplements.
I use a mix of bodywork techniques. These include VOM, which is veterinary orthopedic manipulation. It is a type of chiropractic and osteopathic therapy. I also use acupuncture and electroacupuncture. Additionally, I apply cold laser therapy with 2-4 medical devices at the same time. Aromatherapy and PEMF therapy are also part of my approach, along with other methods.
Additional management options include:
Physical Therapy and Rehabilitation:
- Hydrotherapy (underwater treadmill)
- Strengthening and balance exercises
- Stretching and passive range of motion
Mobility aids:
- Rear support harnesses
- Dog wheelchairs (carts)
Nutritional Support:
- Antioxidant supplements (e.g., Vitamin E, B-complex)
- Omega-3 fatty acids
- Aminocaproic acid and N-acetylcysteine (sometimes recommended, though evidence is limited)
Lifestyle Adjustments:
- Non-slip flooring
- Preventing pressure sores and secondary infections
- Frequent toileting if incontinence occurs
Palliative Care:
- Pain management (though DM itself is typically not painful)
- Euthanasia may be considered in late stages when the quality of life declines severely
Prognosis:
DM is progressive and ultimately fatal, but not painful. With appropriate supportive care, many dogs can live comfortably for 6 months to 2 years after diagnosis. The rate of progression varies between individuals.
If your dog has degenerative myelopathy or you think it might, please contact me. I want to give you and your dog hope, love, and support during the last year(s). There are things we can do together to make this time better and more hopeful.
Namaste,
Jill
