Canine Back Pain: Can Stem Cells Help?
“Canine Back Pain” is a broad term that encompasses pain felt in any location along a dog’s back. Because the back is such a complex structure, this pain can result form a variety of causes which may be difficult and costly to diagnose. Spinal structures, nerves, and the surrounding soft tissues may all be involved as sources of canine back pain, but the exact location may be hard to pinpoint.
In recent years, cell therapy has emerged as a treatment option for human lower back pain. While most of the clinical work has focused on intradiscal injections, recent methods have become less invasive, utilizing injection into the muscles surrounding the spine. Stem cells may reduce inflammation and modulate pain, thereby leading to the patient being more comfortable.
In a recent stem cell success story, we discussed Sam, a German Shepherd who has arthritis in his lower spine. Following treatment with VetStem Regenerative Cell Therapy, Sam’s range of motion increased along with his activity level. You can read Sam’s story here.
While the results of the human clinical trials appear promising, using stem cells to treat canine back pain is still in the early stages. We cannot emphasize enough what a complex structure the back is and, as such, stem cells may not work for every condition that causes canine back pain. If your dog is experiencing back pain, the best place to start is with a veterinarian examination. Your vet can help determine what is causing your dog’s back pain and whether or not stem cell therapy may be an option. Need help finding a vet? Contact us to receive a list of VetStem providers in your area.