The two main methods of managing cervical disc disease are:
In dogs with cervical disc disease that are undergoing conservative treatment their exercise must be restricted. Short walks on a harness for toileting purposes may be necessary, with strict confinement at other times. The hope is that the ‘slipped disc’ will heal, any neck pain subside and the spinal cord recover from any injury. Painkillers may be necessary and possibly other drugs such as muscle relaxants.
Surgery: Surgery aims to remove any disc material that is compressing the spinal cord and to prevent any more disc material ‘slipping’. Decompressive surgery involves removing a section of bone from the bottom of the spine (ventral slot) to enable retrieval of disc material. Further ‘slipping’ is prevented by removing any remaining material in the centre of the disc (disc fenestration). Occasionally vertebral stabilisation (fusion) procedures are necessary, especially in large dogs.