Question Details
GME Assistance
by Lauren Chattigre - November 7, 2009
Hi there. I've been working with a 2hr MC french bulldog with GME. Dog has been on variable doses of pred (higher when he worsens). I also have him on Oxyperm, fish oils, colostrum, enzymes/probiotics, and cholodin.

Initially symptoms just involved pelvic limb weakness and responded well to Si Miao San which matched his tongue and pulses. A couple months later he had an episode of neck pain, CP deficits L front and rear, and seeming spacy; with some evidence of damp heat and along with the pain and spaciness I added Xuan Bi Tang and Ban Xia Bai Zhu Tian Ma Tang. He did well and was able to taper pred for a few months. Then he developed a L-sided head tilt, turning to the left, and falling to the left. He did better after increasing his Ban xia dose.

Now several months later his CP deficits are worse all four limbs despite increasing his pred dose. All four limbs are a bit weak (forelimbs now more than hindlimbs). No head tilt. Tongue is actually a bit pale and dry; pulses are a bit deep, weak, and slightly rapid.

Just wondering if there's anything more to do herbally, or if after almost a year we're where we should expect to be. Also, if there are any other supplements I should be considering.

I also have him on a hypoallergenic diet for repeat ear infections. He also has a history of juvenile demodicosis. Thanks!
Replies
by naturevet
November 8, 2009
What kind of work up has he had? Right now, the approach that's called for is the opposite of what you've been doing. Before you just plunge in, and potentially undo everything if we're wrong, it would be really wise to get a chiropractic evaluation of his neck. An alternate explanation for the pain and ataxia would be atlanto-occipital joint fixations. These can be quite debilitating. If they were found and released, the pulse right after that should tell you what the appropriate action is.

S
by Lauren Chattigre
November 8, 2009
They did not pursue MRI or tap as the neurologists (she's actually worked with both Dr. Kroll and Skinner) feel strongly it's GME. I can check using VOM technique but I'm not trained in classical chiropractic. He has full ROM of his neck with no pain or tension currently that I can detect, nor any muscle tension there.
by Lauren Chattigre
November 9, 2009
So should I insist on a chiro consult first or proceed with an herb change? Which herbs or other supplements would you suggest? Thank you so much!
by naturevet
November 9, 2009
Well, I've had similar dogs do very well on Du Huo Ji Sheng Tang (Angelica pubescens and Loranthus Combination). But I always check the neck first myself. Even if you do VOM, I'd try it, then reassess the pulse and see if it still feels somewhat thin, deep and taut. If so, then I guess you're good to try the above formula. Start with a low dose and work your way up, since that way if there is any Dampness that comes to light, resultant side effects will be minimal.

Good luck!

Steve
by Lauren Chattigre
November 10, 2009
Thank you so much!
Reply to this question.
You must be logged in to reply