Tyler has Bone Spurs in his Neck !- What it is, How we are Treating it

 In the past week, our 10 year old Dachshund Tyler has had 2 sets of X-rays to try and figure out why he can't go up and down stairs anymore without pain. We learned that he has bone spurs in his neck!  I never heard of bone spurs affecting a dog, so this is all new to me. In today's blog, you'll read what I learned, how they form, and how to treat it... 

HOW DO BONE SPURS FORM?  Bone spurs are usually caused by local inflammation, such as from degenerative arthritis (osteoarthritis) or tendinitis. This inflammation stimulates the cells that form bone to deposit bone in this area, eventually leading to a bony prominence or spur.

HOW TO MANAGE IT? Most patients with mild or moderate nerve compression and irritation from bone spurs can manage their symptoms effectively without surgery. The goal of nonsurgical treatment is to stop the cycle of inflammation and pain.

(Image: human neck showing a bone spur- looks the same in canines) 

METHODS TO TREAT IT - 

• 1) NSAIDS to reduce swelling, relieve pain and relax muscles for four to six weeks.
• 2) Physical therapy and manipulation of joints to restore flexibility and strength, improve posture and reducing the pressure on the nerves.
• 3) Rest.

(Image right: Tyler's neck x-ray revealed the bone spurs)

WHAT WE ARE DOING -

1)  Tyler is taking Gabapentin to reduce the swelling. This is a short term thing.

2)  We are carrying Tyler up and down stairs now, because ascending and descending stairs only irritate the bone spur against the neck muscles.

3)  Acupuncture - Tyler received his first acupuncture treatment this week to alleviate the pressure it was causing. 

      - Since surgery isn't often recommended, we're not considering it yet (after all, Tyler is 10 years old), but if it gets worse, it may be an option.