CDRM (Canine Degenerative Myelopathy) is a spinal cord disease where there is death of the nerve cells carrying messages to and from the limbs. Many dogs do not exhibit pain or discomfort but suffer progressive loss of control of their back legs. CDRM has quite often been referred to as the canine version of multiple sclerosis. 

CDRM usually affects dogs older than 5-8 years of age and if present a subtle and non-painful weakness will develop in one hind limb. Over the next few months, after onset, a dog will start to show signs of an ataxic walk (‘drunken sailor’ walk), they may drag their paws, cross their hind limbs when walking and fall over when cornering.

Symptoms:

• Ataxia (‘drunken sailor’ walk)

• Lack of hind limb coordination

• Falling over

• Swaying

• Worn nails and scuffing of their toes

• Loss of proprioception (the sense of where your limbs are in space)

• Knuckling over

• Postural misalignment

• Dragging legs

• Paresis (partial paralysis of muscles)

   

How massage can help:

• Relief from pain caused by overcompensation in other areas of the body such as the neck, shoulders and along the back

• Increases blood flow and circulation

• Stimulates the peripheral nerves

• Helps your dog to gain awareness of the rest of their body with a lack of sense in the back end

• Stimulates endorphin release (‘feel good’ hormones) that relieve pain, reduce stress and can help your dog to feel happier

• Promotes stimulation of muscles through passive movement which may help to keep a dog mobile for longer.