In Chiropractic Care the
chiropractor specialises in bones. The main difference between
chiropractors and osteopaths is that chiropractors also use X-rays as
part of the diagnostic process.
If you own an active dog, or an older dog prone to falling, or your
female dog has just had puppies, or any dog has had an accident, etc.,
it is quite likely that your dog will need Chiropractic Care.
Registered and qualified chiropractors treat disorders by gently
moveing bones that have become misaligned back into place through
manipulation.
Chiropractic treatment addresses problems stemming from imbalances in
the following three systems:
1.) Bones and
joints
form a flexible structure designed to provide pain-free movement when
in
normal health and alignment.
2.) Healthy muscles allow the joints to move freely.
Healthy
muscles are free of spasm, weakness, pain, knots, or degenerative
changes.
3.) Nerves are the electrical wires of the body. They
"direct"
the functions of the body controlling the flow of communication between
the
brain and all areas of the body. Reduced performance levels and pain
may
result from pinched nerves. This can quickly lead to a state of poor
health.
Perhaps the most well known form of Chiropractic treatment is
'McTimoney Chiropractic', this was named after John McTimoney who
developed his own form
of treatment and began teaching it in 1972.
Chiropractic literally
translated means 'done by hand'. The aims are to treat causes
rather than symptoms, the principle is that many disturbances to the
nervous system result from misalignment of bones of the spine and other
parts of the body. These are believed to be at least a
contributory factor in the pathological process of many common human
and animal ailments. A McTimoney Chiropractor considers
that periodic treatments are worthwhile on a preventative basis to
avoid
incipient problems.
Chiropractic treatment may not be appropriate in the following
circumstances: Immediately following surgery. It is important to let the animal
heal for at least a week after a minor surgery and two weeks after a
major
surgery before performing an adjustment and then only in exceptional
cases
with your Vet's approval.
In cases where a fracture or major dislocation is suspected.
Where the stress of being adjusted outweigh the possible benefits, such
as when animals that are extremely anxious or aggressive and may not
reap
the benefit of the treatment.
Animals who are under heavy sedation or anesthesia.
Damage may occur to the animal's structures while sedated.
Always contact your Veterinary Surgeon for permission and advice first.
Common symptoms of a dog
who may need adjusting are
Ambling" (when the dog trots and his front and back legs move
laterally, rather than in diagonal pairs),
Lameness,
Irritability (who isn't when they're in pain?)
Reluctance to exercise.
You will need your vet's permission before a chiropractor can see your
dog.
The above information is simply informational. It's intent is
not to
replace the advice of a veterinarian nor to assist you in making a
diagnosis of your pet. Please consult with your own veterinarian for
confirmation of any diagnosis. Your pets life may depend on it.
