Veterinary Chiropractic Care
        by Dr. Brooke Johnson

What is chiropractic care? Chiropractic is a holistic health care system widely used in human medicine and quickly growing within the veterinary fired. The word "chiropractic" is a combination of the Greek words for "hand" (cheiros) and "done by" (praktikos), meaning "done by hand." The science and philosophy of chiropractic focuses on the relationship between spinal biomechanics and the nervous system. Restoring spinal motion will optimize nervous system function. Since the nervous system is critical for all body functions, a restriction to spinal movement will adversely affect coordination of movement and overall health.

Chiropractic is not intended to replace traditional veterinary care, but offers a complimentary therapy that is used to successfully treat many health and performance problems. Focus on the Spine The spine is a complex structure made of bone, ligament, cartilage, nerves and muscles. It has two very different, but very important functions. The first is to protect the spinal cord that runs within the spine. The spinal cord and the many nerves emerging from it are necessary to keep the information highway of the body communicating openly between the brain and every part of the animal's body. The second function of the spine is to facilitate movement. Individual vertebral joints have little mobility, but when acting as a whole the back and neck are quite flexible. Knowing both of these functions it is easy to see why a healthy spine allows an animal to be flexible, healthy, and happy. Conversely, a spine that does not move properly will cause an animal to be stiff, sick, and not living to their potential. Vertebral Subluxation Complexes Vertebral subluxation complex (VSC) is the term used by animal chiropractors to label a joint of the spine the exhibits a restricted range of movement. Simply put, the joint is "stuck".  Flexibility at that area of the spine is decreased and the body compensates by overflexing a different part of the spine. Compensation uses extra energy and requires engagement of different muscles that are asked to do a job they are not intended for. VSC's identified during a chiropractic exam are corrected by an adjustment. An adjustment is a quick, short, controlled thrust along a joint plane. These corrections are very specific, high speed, low amplitude motions that cause a stuck joint to become unstuck. Reasons for VSC's to develop make a long list but stress, trauma, illness, high athletic performance, and poor saddle fit are the most common. What to Expect From a Chiropractic Exam A Chiropractic exam begins by discussing the animal's medical history and any current conditions hoping to be addressed by chiropractic. The doctor will begin to examine the animal and make a determination whether examination by the primary care veterinarian is necessary prior to chiropractic therapy. If the doctor feels it is appropriate to proceed with chiropractic care then the entire musculoskeletal system will be palpated for soreness, muscle spasm, pain, swelling, or muscle atrophy. the animal will be observed in motion to identify gait abnormalities. The, the spine will be motion-palpated to identify VSC's Each VSC identified will be treated by a chiropractic adjustment. Although particular attention will be give to the spine, other joints within the legs, jaw, or skull may also be adjusted. Lastly, aftercare instructions regarding exercise and follow-up appointments will be given.