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The vertebrae come together at three main points: the intervertebral disk between the end plates of the
vertebral bodies, and two articular facets. In addition to these three main contact points, the vertebral column is also held
together by numerous muscles and their tendinous attachments, and ligaments, which are specialized tissues that connect from
one bone to another bone.
Intervertebral disks are composed of two major anatomic zones: the annulus fibrosus and the nucleus pulposus. The
annulus is composed of laminated fibrous tissue wrapped around the gelatinous nucleus pulposus. Individual annular fibers
radiate outwardly at varying angles to accommodate all the angles of force that can be applied to the disk. The outer
layers of the annulus fibrosus and the dorsal longitudinal ligament contain sensory nerve fibers as opposed to the nucleus
pulposus and transitional zone fibers which have none. So called diskogenic pain arises when there is stretching and tearing
damage of the outer laminated layers of the annulus fibrosus.
Where vertebrae come together, a "opening" is formed on each side of the spinal column where the spinal nerves and
the blood vessels exit and enter the spinal canal. These "openings" are called intervertebral foramina. One nerve exits
through each intervertebral foramen. In the canine for example, there are 8 cervical, 13 thoracic, and 7 lumbar spinal nerves
that exit these spinal vertebra.
The spinal cord is covered by protective membranes collectively called the meninges. The motor and sensory nerve
fibers of each cord segment join inside the meninges to become the spinal nerves before exiting this protective sack as peripheral
nerves. The meninges are innervated by numerous sensory nerve fibers called meningeal nerves. When a disk herniates into
the spinal canal, the meningeal nerves become compressed and inflamed causing the animal a great deal of pain. In addition,
the nerve roots themselves are often compressed, resulting in a great deal of pain for the affected animal and affecting the
area that these nerves supply.
*Disclaimer
Dr.
Wasserman, Chiropractor, is not a veterinarian, nor does he practice veterinary medicine.
The
Certified Veterinary Chiropractitioner title and CVCP lettering indicate that he has completed the coursework and requirements
for accreditation as a Certified Veterinary Chiropractitioner. Dr. Wasserman holds an international certification since Sepetember
26, 2001, certificate # 10101, directly from W. Inman, D.V.M..
Dr.
Wasserman, is a chiropractor that consults with veterinarians under veterinary written referral ONLY and ONLY at a veterinary
facility.
To
enhance the quality of veterinary care, Dr. Wasserman, Chiropractor, utilizes a non invasive technology called Veterinary
Orthopedic Manipulation or VOM. It is a technology that was developed in 1983 by W. Inman, D.V.M. that provides an alternative,
non-surgical approach to spinal disorders and lameness. Many neuromuscular disorders can be treated by VOM, a non-invasive,
non-painful, and inexpensive healing alternative. The services rendered by Dr. Wasserman, Chiropractor, are restricted to
the VOM technologies. As with all clinical procedures, this technique is being
applied without guarantee of cure or promise of relief.
Dr.
Wasserman, Chiropractor, will work directly in close cooperation with your veterinarian or the VCA facilities veterinarian.
Dr. Wasserman always recommends to follow your veterinarian advice and prescribed medications and to seek specialty veterinary
professional opinions if needed regarding the condition or treatment of your companion animal(s).
Steven B. Wasserman, RN, DC, CVCP
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