Neuro Corner Answers

Dr. Andrew Isaacs
DVM Diplomate ACVIM (Neurology)
Dogwood Veterinary Referral Center

Primary interests include intervertebral disc disease, seizure management, luxations/fractures of the spine, and surgery for brain tumors

Question

LINDA STOWE, FOUNDER DODGERSLIST, WRITES:

We keep getting questions about the back braces on DodgersList.   We have said there needs to be more research to see if they are really helpful for an IVDD dog and if you want to try it, work with a specialist.   I imagine most people buying these will let the dog wear them for a few days and then they’ll end up in the closet.  They are not handy to get on and off and adjust.  I don’t know about how comfortable they would be or what harm they might do. What is your opinion about using back braces with an IVDD dog?

ANSWER

I totally agree with your statement.

Here is my take: There are a variety of “back braces” available. Unfortunately, I am not aware of any that have been tested in a controlled laboratory setting or in a clinical study.  Therefore, as a general statement, “back braces” should be used under the supervision of a veterinarian familiar and knowledgeable with the treatment of intervertebral disk disease.