CASE VIENNA
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Vienna’s Victory: Overcoming IVDD and Restoring Mobility
Meet Vienna, a spirited 6-year-old dachshund who faced a challenging journey but ultimately triumphed over her mobility issues. Vienna came to us with a suspected case of T3-L3 myelopathy, likely due to intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), a condition all too common in her breed.
Just two weeks before her visit, Vienna experienced a sudden loss of function in her back legs. After a playful romp with her canine sibling, she began walking wobbly, which soon progressed to a complete inability to use her back legs. Initially, she could manage a few shaky steps in the morning, but this improved only slightly before she regressed.
Vienna’s owner initially sought help from a neurologist who prescribed a four-week regimen of crate rest, Gabapentin, and Prednisone. Although Vienna seemed to improve initially, her condition worsened again before the medication course was completed. She struggled with urination and defecation when posturing (no incontinence), requiring extra care and assistance from her owner.
Upon referral to Southeast Veterinary Neurology (SEVN) in Jupiter, Vienna was diagnosed with T3-L3 myelopathy secondary to IVDD. Her treatment plan included conservative management, but due to the severity of her symptoms, Dr. Natalie recommended more intensive therapy options.
We introduced Vienna to a combination of acupuncture and photobioodulation (laser therapy). Remarkably, by her second visit, Vienna was already up and walking! Although she was still somewhat wobbly and weak, the progress was promising. With the addition of advanced acupuncture techniques, including electroacupuncture, and a tailored rehabilitation program, Vienna made incredible strides. By her fourth session, she was nearly fully recovered, though a minor setback occurred when she got a bit too energetic.
Despite this brief hurdle, Vienna has made a full recovery and regained her mobility. Today, she’s back to her happy, active self, enjoying life to the fullest. You can view Vienna’s journey down below which highlights the power of combining innovative therapies with a dedicated care plan.
If your pet is facing mobility issues, we’re here to help with advanced treatments and personalized care. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation!
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SEE HOW WE CHANGED THEIR LIFE
Please see Miss Vienna when she first came to our clinic. She’s very sweet but clearly struggling here, with difficulty walking, moving very slowly, and dragging her rear legs.
Just one week later at her next session, Vienna is already showing progress! She’s able to walk, though still a bit wobbly, but is eager to explore. Her tail is wagging, and she’s ready for her treatment.
Here, Vienna receives photobiomodulation (laser therapy) at her second session using our Fear-Free approach, which includes treats to keep her comfortable and happy. Her excitement and eagerness to come to sessions are evident—she associates therapy with feeling better and getting rewards
With her improved mobility, Vienna has started a customized formal rehab program. Here, she’s working on her coordination, balance, and strength with cavaletti poles, a fun exercise her owner can continue at home to support her recovery.
Here is Vienna 2.5 months after her initial session. She has come a long way! Her posture is less hunched, her stride has improved, and her overall mobility is much better. She’s clearly happy and feeling more like herself again.
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