Huge gains from pet physiotherapy

AS THE awareness of human medicine for physical rehabilitation has increased, it is also beginning to increase in the veterinary world. This is especially true for postoperative recovery, and to maintain a functional range of motion and muscular strength which occurs with ageing and wasting conditions.

A veterinary physiotherapist works with the rest of the veterinary team on patient care and is a vital part of the management and recovery in many surgical cases including spinal surgery, fracture repair and cruciate surgery.

Pets with soft tissue injuries, older ones with osteoarthritis and overweight pets that need a gentle exercise plan to assist with weight loss can also be helped. A veterinary physiotherapist is a paraveterinary professional who undergoes a four-year training course with much hands-on training as well as a great deal of theoretical knowledge on anatomy, physiology and pathophysiology.

The ability to bond with the pets in their care and communicate with the owners is essential. Although the physio will see a pet on a regular basis during its rehabilitation, home care by the owner is beneficial.

Even though there are a number of pieces of equipment which aid in pain management, nerve stimulation and muscle strengthening, much is done with simple massaging, manipulation and gentle exercise. Often it is necessary to manage wounds, be they surgical or traumatic, as part of the therapy.

With surgical cases, the aim is to strengthen pre-operatively; to ensure a swift post-operative recovery and ensure our companion animals stay strong and fit.

Rehabilitation of surgical patients often requires an intensive multi-week period with physio treatments as often as once a day and gentle home care by the owner.

Chronic cases involving pain management, dysfunctions of the neuromuscular, musculosketal and cardiorespiratory systems, will require ongoing treatments to manage the condition and support the pet. These treatments are usually weekly with home care by the owner to support the physio’s work.

The benefits of physiotherapy are not just physical. Often sick pets, pets in pain, and pets that have restricted movement due to injury or postoperative recovery, become depressed and frustrated showing aggression or withdrawal behaviour.

Physical interaction with these pets has several positive effects. As their pain lessens and their ability to move and exercise increases their personality returns to normal.

A qualified veterinary physiotherapist equipped with electrotherapy equipment (Laser therapy, Stimpod, EMS, TENS and Photizo) and rehabilitation exercises equipment can be the difference between a full recovery and a slight recovery, and even between life and death.

At Valley Farm Animal Hospital we consider our cats and dogs to be of high priority and ensure the best possible quality of life for them. – Valley Farm Animal Hospital. See valleyfarmvet.co.za