Our Services
Veterinary Medical Manipulation
Veterinary medical manipulation (VMM), similar to chiropractic adjustments performed by Doctors of Chiropractic (DC) in humans, is the specific and gentle manipulation of the body to allow the bones and soft tissues to work harmoniously together. Medical manipulation is typically subtle, in that it does not require strength or large movements, and it improves bio-mechanics, nerve function, immune response, and restores normal range of motion.
What’s the difference between chiropractic and
medical manipulation?
Chiropractic, as defined by law, is performed by a chiropractor who has completed human chiropractic training and obtained a Doctor of Chiropractic degree (DC).
When similar techniques are applied to animals by veterinarians, it is called spinal manipulation or medical manipulation.
How does medical manipulation work in the body?
Manipulations involve gentle motion and sometimes a specific, directed thrust along the plane of the joint.
This safely restores range of motion, and relaxes connective tissue, by stimulating receptors within muscle fibers, joint capsules, and muscle-tendon junctions.
Because of its relationship with the nervous system, VMM, like acupuncture, addresses the whole body by causing local and systemic effects.
What to Expect
The initial VMM includes a thorough history and VMM physical exam.
Unless otherwise requested, Dr. Mangan performs her physical exam while simultaneously manipulating anything that needs therapy as she goes along.
The typical VMM exam and treatment takes about 45 minutes, depending on the patient and how many manipulations need to be done.
We recommend follow up visits once weekly or every other week for 2-5 treatments, and then as needed to keep the animal in good form.
Most animals suffer from recurring restrictions and do best with a consistent maintenance schedule, the frequency of which is patient-dependent.
Commonly Treated Conditions
Restrictions in range of motion can cause muscle tension, pain, weakness, malnourished cartilage, and abnormal nervous system functioning. Signs that your animal may need VMM include:
Reduced performance
Neck or back pain
Stiffness or reluctance to bend
Abnormal gait or undefined lameness
Abnormal posture/stance
Discomfort or hypersensitivity to touch
Difficulty with lead changes or lateral work
Geriatric animals with reduced mobility
Unsure if VMM is right for your animal? Contact us with a brief explanation of what’s been going on and Dr. Mangan can help you decide if integrative medicine would be a good fit.