Problems and complications associated with the nonsurgical management of intervertebral disc disease

Intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) is a common problem encountered in veterinary practice. The primary goal in treating animals with IVDD should be to relieve nerve root and spinal cord compression, thereby retaining or regaining normal neurologic function. Methods of nonsurgical management include corticosteroid medication, nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, acupuncture therapy, and chemonucleolysis. Each one of these modalities have their own inherent advantages and disadvantages that should be considered before instituting therapy.