Addressing Compensatory Pain with the Luma: A Holistic Approach to Pet Care
✍️ Author: Chris Cranston, MPT, CCRP
Treat the Compensations, Not Just the Primary Diagnosis
As a certified canine rehabilitation practitioner and long-time user of the MedcoVet Luma, I often find myself using the Luma not just for primary conditions like arthritis, intervertebral disk disease, or wounds, but also to manage compensatory pain and inflammation that stems from incurable conditions such as hip dysplasia and degenerative myelopathy.
Compensation occurs when the body adjusts to a primary diagnosis, leading to secondary strain, inflammation, and discomfort in other areas. Treating these compensations can significantly improve a pet’s quality of life and mobility.
Hip Dysplasia: Treating the Whole Dog
Canine hip dysplasia is a congenital condition that can only be managed, not cured. Treatment often includes weight management or, in severe cases, surgical intervention. In addition to targeting inflammation in the hips caused by the abnormal joint structure, I recommend addressing compensatory areas, including:
Neck and thoracic limbs: Tightness and soreness due to shifting weight forward off of the hips.
Lower back and pelvis: Areas of compensatory strain caused by the biomechanical relationship with the hips.
By using the Luma in these areas, pet parents can effectively reduce pain and inflammation, promoting comfort and mobility.
Degenerative Myelopathy: A Progressive Challenge
Meet Hugo, a dog diagnosed with degenerative myelopathy two years ago. We prescribed the Luma immediately, tailoring the treatment plan as his condition progressed:
Initial Focus:
Thoraco-lumbar spine, rear limb toes, and tail tip: To address early-stage inflammation and maintain function.
Wound Management:
Abrasive wounds on his feet were treated with the Luma, accelerating healing despite the challenges of his condition.
Compensation Treatment:
As Hugo relied more on his front end due to progressive hind end weakness and using a harness or wheelchair, we directed therapy to his neck, shoulders, and thoracic limbs to manage overuse soreness.
The consistent use of the Luma empowered Hugo’s owner to provide daily support in a situation that could have felt hopeless. This ability to apply effective light therapy at home is a game-changer compared to clinical-only treatments of the past.
Layering in Compensation Treatment
When discussing the Luma with clients, I start by focusing on the primary condition to avoid overwhelming them. However, once they see how simple the device is to use, I encourage them to expand treatment to compensatory areas, addressing the pet’s overall wellbeing.
The Takeaway for Clinicians
As physical rehabilitation practitioners, many of us already think holistically about treating the entire pet. However, I challenge clinicians in both general and specialty practices to educate pet parents about compensatory issues when introducing the Luma.
By treating compensations in addition to the primary diagnosis, the Luma becomes an investment in the pet’s healing and long-term wellness—an investment that goes far beyond monetary value.
If you have questions or need guidance in creating tailored Luma protocols for your patients, MedcoVet is here to support you. Together, we can empower pet parents to provide the best care for their pets.