The spine is designed to move along certain anatomical planes in a smooth effortless gliding manner. If a spinal segment (two adjacent vertebra’s and the disc space between them) is restricted in this movement, it is termed “spinal segment dysfunction.” This will cause an increase in the spinal fluid pressure in that spinal segment, which in turn causes the nerves that emanate from that section to not function properly.

This will lead to muscles that are weaker, imbalanced, and filled with painful trigger points. Restricted spinal motion can also lead to organ ( liver, kidney, heart etc.) dysfunction that will be reflected in blood work (elevated enzyme levels). By restoring spinal motion, pain is relieved, blood supply is increased, and internal organs function more normally.

As animals age, the motion in the spine becomes increasingly restricted. The back takes more strain due to extremity issues like arthritic knees, hips or shoulders. Restrictions in the back then cause poor muscle function which makes the animal feel more pain and progressively more debilitated. At the same time, internal organs start to become affected. For example, kidney function may deteriorate and the animal will drink more water and urinate more frequently. Chiropractic therapy will therefore not only make the animal feel better, but may also allow it to live longer because the internal organs are working in a better fashion. Chiropractic therapy allows an animal to move better, feel better and function better – the longer an animal moves, the longer he lives.