A gentle, sedation-free way to help your pet move comfortably
When a pet’s nervous system loses communication with part of the body, movement, comfort and even organ function can suffer. At Sarasota Animal Medical Center, we use Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation (VOM) to locate the area where that communication has broken down and help re-establish it. Pet owners across Sarasota, FL and the Lakewood Ranch area turn to us for this painless, hands-on approach.
Request an AppointmentWhat is Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation?
VOM is a healing technique that finds an area of an animal’s nervous system that has fallen out of communication and re-establishes neuronal communication, which in turn encourages the body to heal. It is a different angle on wellness that looks at how the nervous system and the spine work together, rather than treating only the symptom you can see.
Why are these adjustments important?
When the spine is misaligned, the nervous system does not function properly. This can result in impaired nervous function called subluxation. Left untreated, a subluxation can lead to bone and joint displacement, spondylosis, or joint fusion. Addressing these problems early can help protect your pet’s mobility and comfort over the long term.
How does VOM work?
VOM uses an activator, which serves as a graduated spinal accelerometer. The procedure is painless and safe. Because it is so gentle, your pet can be adjusted without sedation, whether standing, sitting, resisting or in muscle spasm. That makes it a low-stress option for pets who are anxious, sore or difficult to position.
What can VOM do for your pet?
VOM can be used to treat many conditions, including:
- Acute and non-acute lameness
- Hip dysplasia-like syndromes
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Progressive myelopathy
- Urinary and fecal incontinence
- Wobbler’s Disease
- Digestive disorders
- Agility dysfunction
- Endocrine disease
This list is not exhaustive, and VOM may help with other issues as well. Our veterinarians will examine your pet and talk with you about whether it is a good fit.
Part of a whole-pet approach
Orthopedic manipulation is one of several integrative options we offer. Depending on your pet’s needs, it may be discussed alongside our holistic medicine or cold laser therapy services, so you can build a care plan that fits your pet’s comfort, age and lifestyle.
Orthopedic Manipulation FAQs
What is Veterinary Orthopedic Manipulation (VOM)?
VOM is a healing technique that locates an area of an animal’s nervous system that has fallen out of communication and re-establishes neuronal communication, which helps induce healing.
Is VOM painful for my pet?
No. VOM is a painless and safe procedure. It uses an activator, which serves as a graduated spinal accelerometer, to deliver gentle adjustments.
Does my pet need sedation for an adjustment?
No. Pets can be adjusted without sedation while standing, sitting, resisting or in muscle spasm, which makes the experience easier for many nervous or sore animals.
What conditions can VOM treat?
VOM can treat many conditions, including acute and non-acute lameness, hip dysplasia-like syndromes, intervertebral disc disease, progressive myelopathy, urinary and fecal incontinence, Wobbler’s Disease, digestive disorders, agility dysfunction and endocrine disease.
What is subluxation, and why does it matter?
Subluxation is an impaired nervous function that can occur when the spine is misaligned. Left untreated, it can result in bone and joint displacement, spondylosis, or joint fusion, so early attention is important.
Can VOM be combined with other therapies?
In many cases, yes. Our veterinarians can discuss how orthopedic manipulation may fit with other services we offer, such as holistic medicine and cold laser therapy, based on your pet’s individual needs.
Do you offer orthopedic manipulation for pets in Lakewood Ranch?
Yes. We welcome pets from Sarasota, FL and the surrounding Lakewood Ranch area. Call our hospital to schedule a consultation for your pet.
Help your pet move with less discomfort
If your pet is struggling with lameness, stiffness or other nerve-related concerns, we’re here to help. Call (941) 954-4771 or request a visit online to schedule your pet’s consultation at Sarasota Animal Medical Center.