Chloe Evangelou

Patient Overview
Chloe Evangelou, a 3-year-old sterilised female French Bulldog, presented with ongoing hindlimb lameness following surgery for Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD). Despite nearly a year of consistent physiotherapy, her mobility remained limited. By the end of May 2025, mobility aids such as wheels had been recommended due to the lack of sufficient progress.

Diagnosis and Initial Condition
Chloe’s case was classified as a post-operative IVDD with chronic mobility impairment. After prolonged physiotherapy with minimal improvement, her condition suggested incomplete neurological recovery. At this stage, her quality of life and independence were significantly affected.

Treatment Approach
An intensive acupuncture protocol was introduced, focusing on electro acupuncture to stimulate nerve function, improve circulation, and support muscular engagement.

Treatment plan:

• Daily sessions for the first 2 weeks (intensive phase)
• Thereafter, weekly sessions
• Each session lasting approximately 1 hour

Treatment began toward the end of 2025, with a strong emphasis on consistency and neurological stimulation.

Progress and Response to Treatment
Chloe showed encouraging functional improvements following the intensive treatment phase and ongoing weekly sessions:

• Improved ability to walk and stabilise herself
• Increased confidence in movement
• Notable improvement in navigating slippery surfaces without assistance, a key indicator of strength and coordination

An attempt was made to reduce treatment frequency to once every two weeks. However, this resulted in a decline in her condition, indicating that she benefits significantly from consistent, weekly intervention.

Outcome and Current Status
Chloe remains on a weekly maintenance acupuncture programme, which continues to support her mobility and quality of life. While she has not fully recovered, the improvement from her initial state, where wheels were being considered, is significant.

Her progress is ongoing, and continued treatment is expected to further support her neurological function and independence over time.

Conclusion
Chloe Evangelou’s case demonstrates the importance of treatment consistency in chronic, post-operative IVDD cases. Even when conventional rehabilitation shows limited results, an intensive and sustained acupuncture approach can lead to meaningful functional improvements.