Targeted therapy to reduce pain, support spinal health, and improve mobility.
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) is one of the most common causes of back and neck pain in dogs. While it can range from mild discomfort to serious neurological impairment, early recognition and proper rehabilitation play a critical role in recovery and long-term quality of life.
IVDD is a degenerative disease affecting the intervertebral discs found between most of the vertebrae in the spine. These discs act like shock absorbers, allowing the spine to move and flex. Each disc has a tough outer layer and a soft, jelly-like center—similar to a jelly donut. With IVDD, the disc weakens and can rupture or herniate, allowing the inner material to press on the spinal cord and nerve roots.
Back pain in dogs can range from mild stiffness to severe, debilitating discomfort. IVDD is one of the most common causes of canine back pain and can significantly impact mobility and quality of life. While it is common, it should never be ignored—early intervention is critical to prevent worsening symptoms and potential neurological damage.
Signs of IVDD may include back or neck pain, a hunched posture, sensitivity to touch, hind limb weakness, unsteadiness, anxious behavior, difficulty standing or walking, loss of sensation in the hind legs, and impaired bowel or bladder control. Symptoms can progress quickly, making prompt evaluation essential.
Whether surgery or conservative management is chosen, physical therapy is a vital component of IVDD recovery. Our certified canine rehabilitation therapist develops a customized plan that goes beyond crate rest and underwater treadmill use. Rehabilitation may include Neurodevelopmental Sequence techniques, controlled functional activities, and progressive exercises designed to restore movement, strength, and confidence while supporting long-term recovery.
Identifying Type I IVDD
Type I IVDD most commonly affects breeds with abnormally short legs. Over time, the outer layer of the spinal discs hardens, increasing the risk of the jelly-like inner substance spilling into areas where it shouldn’t, leading to nerve compression.
High-impact activities such as playing fetch, jumping on furniture, or sudden movements often act as triggers for Type I IVDD episodes.
Identifying Type II IVDD
Type II IVDD typically occurs in other breeds and is generally less severe than Type I. It develops gradually and is not usually associated with a specific triggering event.
Over time, the spinal discs become harder and less flexible, causing the jelly-like inner material to bulge outward and place pressure on the spinal cord and surrounding nerves.
Treatment & Recovery Options
There are two primary approaches to treating IVDD: surgical intervention and conservative management. Surgery is designed to relieve compression on the spinal cord or nerve roots and is often followed by crate rest and medications to manage pain, inflammation, and reduce the risk of re-injury.
Conservative management combines active rest, medication, and rehabilitation. Working with your veterinarian, a certified canine rehabilitation therapist, and possibly a board-certified veterinary neurologist is essential to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your dog’s recovery.
The K9PT has helped many pups recover from Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) through customized rehabilitation programs and close collaboration with pet parents—helping dogs regain comfort, coordination, and confidence throughout their recovery journey.
There are two primary approaches to treating IVDD: surgical intervention or conservative management. Every dog’s condition is unique, and the most appropriate treatment depends on the severity of spinal compression, neurological function, and your dog’s overall health.
Consulting with your veterinarian and a certified canine rehabilitation therapist is essential, and in some cases a board-certified veterinary neurologist may also be recommended to guide the best recovery plan.
When surgery is required, the primary goal is to relieve pressure on the spinal cord and affected nerve roots. Following surgery, dogs are typically placed on crate rest and prescribed medications to manage pain, inflammation, and prevent further injury.
Once cleared for rehabilitation, physical therapy becomes a critical part of recovery. At The K9PT, post-surgical rehab focuses on safely rebuilding strength, coordination, and balance so your pup can gradually return to walking and everyday activities.
For dogs with mild to moderate IVDD—or when surgery is not an option— conservative management can be highly effective. This approach combines medication, active rest, and a structured rehabilitation program.
Unlike complete crate rest, active rest includes controlled, purposeful movement designed to promote healing while minimizing the risk of re-injury. A guided physical therapy plan helps support recovery while maintaining strength and confidence.
TheK9PT is Chicago’s top-rated dog physical therapy clinic, established in 2017 with a state-of-the-art facility opened in 2020.
Our fear-free, positive reinforcement approach ensures every dog has their own private treatment room — free from contact with other dogs. We focus on comfort, trust, and individualized care.
Conveniently located in the Mayfair / Irving Park neighborhood, just half a mile from I-94, our clinic is easily accessible throughout Chicagoland.
We offer FREE on-site parking with two exclusive spots directly in front of the clinic, and our team is always happy to assist with your pet’s entry or exit if needed.
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Download →Hear directly from pet parents whose dogs regained mobility, confidence, and quality of life through canine rehabilitation at TheK9PT.
“Francisco is the best!! His knowledge and dedication to his patients is outstanding! Just when I thought my girl Roxy didn’t have any options to function normally, in just a short amount of time he helped get her walking and jumping again. She is living the dream at 11 years thanks to his guidance!”
“As one of our dogs has aged, it was very easy to go down the path of he is just getting old. However our vet and friends suggested physical therapy. We asked around various members of the dog community and they all spoke highly of Francisco. He came to our house, on our schedule, and spent time getting to know our dog and his challenges. We noticed the difference within weeks. Our 14.5 year old pup is really feeling the benefits!”
“Just a great experience. We worried about our aging Boxer, but after an extensive evaluation, we learned he was living with arthritis. TheK9PT offered a comprehensive plan to treat the condition and build up muscle and resistance against old age. Highly recommend his services and such a nice person!”
