Integrative Medicine at Belle City Veterinary Hospital

Veterinary spinal manipulation therapy (VSMT) is the care and treatment of not only the spine, but head, neck, legs, ribs, and tail as well. This therapy is used to correct areas that may not be moving properly, thereby causing tenderness and pain. When VSMT is properly applied, these motion units are able to move more freely, which helps to relieve associated pain and tension. Improved movement of the affected motion unit(s) sends signals to the spinal cord and brain, decreasing pain, which improves attitude and quality of life, not to mention freer movement of the patient. VSMT also has the ability to improve internal organ function, promote the body's capability to heal, or may uncover underlying issues masked as skeletal pain. As such, VSMT should only be performed by a certified doctor as it requires advanced training and an extensive knowledge of anatomy and neurology.

More often than not, the patient will require rechecks at an interval determined by the amount of pathology uncovered during the initial exam, along with the life style of the patient. Athletes will benefit from routine adjustments about two weeks prior to competition, as well as afterwards. Older patients, or younger patients with congenital issues, will benefit from the pain relief and expanded mobility provided by VSMT. Therapy is generally well tolerated; many patients actually enjoy the visit.

Further therapy can be recommended at your pet's appointment based on your pet's history and findings during the initial exam. This may include class IV laser therapy, targeted electromagnetic therapy, supplements, and diet and exercise. We understand that many of the patients seeking VSMT may already be on pharmaceutical pain management. Our goal is to use multimodal pain management to further improve your pet's quality of life.

You can expect your pet's first appointment to last about 45 minutes. Follow up appointments may last about 15 minutes. Prior to your pet's first appointment, please fill out the provided questionnaire and send any previous medical records to Belle City Veterinary Hospital. To make an appointment, please call (262) 637-8308.

Dr. McCoy is a graduate of the Healing Oasis's Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy program and is a member of the College of Animal Chiropractors.