Spinal Manipulation Therapy

Humans routinely turn to spinal manipulation therapy to help keep their bodies properly aligned. Today, this same treatment modality can be applied to our animal friends as well. When an area of a pet’s body, such as the spine, pelvis, joints or nervous system, is out of place, the result can be discomfort, pain, reduced mobility and a general reduction in quality of life. 

Veterinary spinal manipulation therapy uses non-invasive, manual techniques and adjustments to help correct these disorders, realign areas that are out of place, and return the animal to normal function. Main West Animal Hospital is pleased to offer this innovative treatment option to better serve the needs of our patients.

What is veterinary spinal manipulation therapy?

Veterinary spinal manipulation therapy helps promote normal mobility of joints and reduce pain and inflammation associated with musculoskeletal and nervous system disorders. The importance of a healthy spine and nervous system cannot be overstated because the nervous system controls every aspect of the body. 

Spinal manipulation therapy involves the use of very specific and gentle adjustments to the joints of the spine and skeleton. These adjustments help to restore normal movement of the joints and proper nervous system function, thereby improving function throughout the entire body.

What can spinal manipulation therapy help with?

Spinal manipulation therapy can be an effective treatment option to help manage a wide variety of conditions, including but not limited to: 

• Arthritis
• Back pain
• Urinary incontinence
• Lameness
• Neurological conditions
• Sports injuries
• Certain behavioral issues
• And many others 

These treatments are non-invasive and rely on the body’s innate ability to heal itself with proper stimulation. It provides an alternative for pet owners that wish to take a proactive and holistic approach to keeping their pets healthy.

What kind of spinal manipulation therapy training does our team possess?

Spinal manipulation therapists are highly trained professionals that are either licensed veterinarians or human chiropractors. They must have also received extensive post-graduate training at an approved Veterinary Chiropractic School and successfully passed certification exams through the College of Animal Chiropractors or the American Veterinary Chiropractic Association.

Dr. Aron Bhan is both a licensed Veterinarian and is Certified in Animal Spinal Manipulation Therapy. The extensive training required to achieve these qualifications allows him to bring a wide range of experience in treating his patients and helping them return to normal function faster. Dr. Bhan is also a certified member of the College of Animal Chiropractors.

What’s involved in spinal manipulation therapy?

Our spinal manipulation therapy begins with an initial consultation, during which Dr. Bhan will evaluate your pet to determine his or her unique needs. We will start by taking a full medical history of your pet and discussing any questions or concerns you may have. 

Dr. Bhan will then perform a comprehensive physical examination of your pet to ensure that all relevant health issues are addressed. During this exam, the nervous system, spine, muscles and joints will all be evaluated to establish normal range of motion and function. 

After the assessment, gentle spinal manipulation therapy will then be applied to help improve areas where problems were identified. You are encouraged to be present with your pet at all times, during both the consultation as well as any subsequent treatments.

How many treatments will my pet need?

The goal of any medical therapy is to help the patient achieve optimum results as quickly as possible so they can return to normal function. Veterinary spinal manipulation has this same goal in mind. That said, treatment requirements will vary with each patient, based on their specific condition and unique needs. Initially, most patients require weekly treatments for a period of one month to manage their condition. Some may also require subsequent maintenance visits every 4-6 weeks to maintain normal function. Our realistic goal is to achieve desired results in as few treatments as possible.



If you believe that your pet may be experiencing pain or reduced mobility, spinal manipulation therapy could help them live a more comfortable life. Contact Main West Animal Hospital today to find out more.