Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) presents one of the most challenging decisions in veterinary neurology: when is conservative management appropriate, and when does the patient need surgery? This course breaks down the Hansen Type I vs. Type II distinction, the critical neurological grading scale (Grades 1–5), and the deep pain perception test that serves as the surgical decision inflection point. Learn the evidence-based multimodal pain protocol for conservative patients — NSAIDs, gabapentin, methocarbamol, acupuncture, and strict cage rest. Explore rehabilitation modalities including laser therapy, underwater treadmill, and e-stim that accelerate spinal cord recovery. Apply practical home nursing care strategies for the paraplegic or paretic patient. Follow Pretzel's case from acute Grade 3 paraparesis through 8 weeks of conservative management to full recovery. Earn 1.0 RACE CE credit.
Case introduction — 4-year-old Dachshund with acute onset rear limb paresis after jumping off the couch; assessment, imaging findings, and conservative management preview
Hansen Type I (nucleus pulposus) vs. Type II (annulus fibrosus), anatomical zones of spinal cord injury, the Grade 1–5 neurological scale, and why deep pain perception is the critical decision point
Grade-based decision tree, the 24–48 hour surgical window for Grade 4–5 cases, deep pain test methodology, owner counseling on prognosis, and cost considerations
10 questions · Passing score: 70%
Complete all course modules to unlock the assessment. Upon passing, your CE certificate will be generated automatically.
NSAIDs, gabapentin titration for neuropathic pain, methocarbamol for muscle spasm, electroacupuncture evidence, strict cage rest protocols, and home safety measures
Photobiomodulation (Class IV laser) mechanisms, underwater treadmill for progressive weight bearing, NMES/e-stim for muscle preservation, sling walking, wheeled carts, and exercise progression
Bladder manual expression technique and frequency, UTI prevention, pressure sore prevention and wound care, cart introduction and fitting, Pretzel's 8-week recovery and return to function