15/08/2025
Laryngeal Paralysis
Laryngeal Paralysis is a functional failure of the larynx and occurs when the vocal folds of the larynx are unable to open during respiratory demands or exercise.
The most common causes of Laryngeal Paralysis include:
- Peripheral polyneuropathy, which is a generalised nerve dysfunction. The laryngeal nerve loses its ability to conduct impulses.
-Trauma to the area, possibly following other surgeries.
-Tumours, around the chest or neck can put pressure on the laryngeal nerve which can result in the nerve malfunctioning
Clinical signs of Laryngeal Paralysis include:
-noisy or raspy breathing, especially during inspiration (breathing in)
-Exercise intolerance
-Weight loss
-Coughing
-Change and or loss of voice
-Collapse
A patient with Laryngeal Paralysis may be experiencing hindlimb weakness due to the nerves being affected. This can lead to muscle loss and weakness which will impact their mobility and balance.
Hindlimb weakness can effect everyday normal activity in dogs, which in turn will increase respiratory effort, worsening the patients breathing.
How can FP Animal Therapy Centre help?
The use of the underwater treadmill can be beneficial with these cases, to build muscle and educate nerve pathways to strengthen the hindlimbs. Swimming is contraindicated at risk of inhaling too much water.
Physiotherapy can also be beneficial with these cases, helping reduce the compensatory issues and creating a tailored home exercise plan to build and maintain muscle.
During treatment of patients with Laryngeal Paralysis there are precautions that must be taken to ensure that treatment is safe. Some of these include:
- Continuous observation of respiration rate, capillary refill time and pulse
-Slow, gentle start and progression of sessions to avoid overexertion
-As with all patients we treat, gaining vet consent that treatment is suitable for the patient.
If you feel your dog would benefit from our services. Please get in touch today.
📞 01327640675
🧑💻 fpatc.co.uk
📧 [email protected]
