Functional Neurorehabilitation in a dog with acute non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusión

Abstract

[eng] In this case report, the functional neurorehabilitation protocol used to treat a non-ambulatory dog with a presumptive acute non-compressive nucleus pulposus extrusion (ANNPE) in C4-C5 spinal cord segment, of traumatic aetiology, is described. The protocol was divided into three phases with different primary aims: pain and muscle hypertonicity management (Phase I), skill acquisition and proprioceptive enhancement (Phase II), and enhanced motor control, strength and endurance training (Phase III). The clinical presentation dictated the time frame for each phase. The expected outcome of the protocol was to increase the dog's quality of life and return ambulatory functionality. The treatment persisted for 210 days, nevertheless after roughly 60 days, the dog became ambulatory. Currently, there is no evidence of sequelae from this injury. This approach may shed light on an effective rehabilitation protocol of these injuries in dogs. Clinicians may consider the neurorehabilitation treatment priority to achieve maximal functional recovery.