VSMT (Veterinary Spinal Manipulation Therapy) is a hands-on and non-invasive therapy intended to improve joint range of motion and decrease pain in our animal companions. The primary goals of regular VSMT are to improve mobility and enhance quality of life. VSMT is offered by both licensed veterinarians and human chiropractors (DCs) who have successfully completed the Veterinary Chiropractic Learning Center course.
Dr. Olivia Schmidtz completed the Veterinary Chiropractic Learning Center’s two-hundred and twenty hour course in Ontario to become certified in veterinary spinal manipulation therapy. Her passion for geriatric quality of life was her motivation to persue this advanced certification.
Commonly Asked Questions
1. What pets are good candidates for VSMT?
All pets can benefit from VSMT in some way or another. This is because everyday activities (jumping, playing with other pets, fetch, etc.) can cause minor injuries. Dr. Olivia offers VSMT to cats and dogs only at this time. Specific pets that may benefit especially from VSMT are geriatrics, performance dogs, post-surgical patients, and athletes.
2. Why use the term VSMT?
This term must be used instead of the term ‘animal chiropractor’ because only a licensed chiropractor (DC) may use the title chiropractor (as such, a DC cannot say they are a veterinarian chiropractor).
3. Is VSMT painful?
VSMT delivers a small, quick thrust to a segment of the spine or other joint in the body. While some animals will be surprised by this new sensation, the treatment is gentle and carefully specialized to each patient’s needs.
4. What training does a veterinarian undergo to be qualified to perform VSMT?
The Veterinary Chiropractic Learning Center’s cirriculum includes the following topics: musculoskeletal anatomy, biomechanics, advanced neurology, chiropractic sciences, ethics and legalities, rehebilitation therapy, animal chiropractic/VSMT techniques, and functional diagnosis. Wesite here: https://veterinarychiropractic.ca/
5. How often should my pet be treated?
Every animal is different, but a commonly recommended treatment schedule would include visits every 7 days for a month, then monthly thereafter. Please consult with your veterinarian to coustomize this schedule to your pet’s needs.
6. Why would my veterinarian recommend other diagnostics before VSMT is performed?
It is important for your veterinarian to have a clear diagnosis of your pet’s illness or injury before treating. This means that additional examination and diagnostics may be recommended first. Some patients may be denied VSMT if not deemed medically appropriate.