Beyond "off back legs!" - 7 steps to assess the acute thoracolumbar spine

0:00 introduction 0:57 Grading of thoracolumbar spinal cord injury 2:04 Essential kit for assessing spinal cord injury The 7-Point System: 4:08 Step 1: Determine if there is spinal pain. 5:01 Step 2: Assess the dog's ability to walk and check for any limb movements. 6:09 Step 3: Examine for lateralization. 9:10 Step 4: Evaluate the integrity of pelvic limb spinal reflexes. 13:52 Spinal Shock If the dog is non-ambulatory, the following steps are crucial. 16:07 Step 5: Determine if there is deep pain perception in the pelvic limbs and tail. 22:24 Step 6: Check for the presence of a panniculus cut-off. 26:22 Step 7: Assess for signs of a neurogenic bladder. 27:54 How to write your findings in medical notes In the world of veterinary medicine, the term "off back legs" is a common descriptor found in medical notes when dogs present with neurological deficits due to thoracolumbar spinal cord injuries. However as anyone receiving emergency neurology referrals will tell you this phrase can mean anything from a non-urgent dog that runs into the clinic apparently normal to a genuine emergency paraplegic with no pain perception. This comprehensive video introduces a 7-point system designed to help veterinarians accurately assess acute thoracolumbar spine injuries in dogs. The insights provided in this video can be invaluable in advising pet owners, offering prognosis, and creating meaningful medical records. If you're feeling uncertain about conducting a neurological examination, the easy steps outlined in this video will empower you to make more informed decisions. This video is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning more about the anatomy of deep pain perception, the panniculus (cutaneous trunci) reflex, and the concept of spinal shock in dogs. Whether you're a veterinarian, pet owner, or simply curious about canine health, this video will provide you with essential knowledge for understanding and managing thoracolumbar spinal injuries. Don't forget to use the provided hashtags to explore related topics and join the conversation. #intervetertebral_disc_disease, #IVVD, #French_bulldog, #dachshund, #spinal-surgery, #canine, #hemilaminectomy, , #spinal_disease, #physiotherapy, #hydrotherapy, #neuro_exam #neurological_examination, #panniculus #cutaneous_trunci, #spinal_shock, #thoracolumbar, #acute_spine. Stay connected 🌐 Website veterinary-neurologist.co.uk/ 📘 Linked In www.linkedin.com/in/clare-rusbridge-8932bb168/ 🐦X Twitter twitter.com/neurovet_clare Mastodon mastodon.social/@neurovet 📷 Instagram instagram.com/neurovetclare?igshid=OGQ5ZDc2ODk2ZA=…