Physical Therapies and Rehabilitation in Animals

Physical rehabilitation therapies have become very popular in small and large animals. After major surgery, we humans are referred for physical therapy to help restore normal body mobility, movement and function. We also use various forms of physical therapy to help manage pain and discomfort of painful conditions, such as osteoarthritis and musculoskeletal injuries and problems. 

So, it makes sense that when our animals experience injury or trauma, or suffer from the same debilitating degenerative diseases – we support their recovery and quality of life through physical therapies and rehabilitation. 

Your pet can benefit greatly if they’re suffering from pain, lack of mobility, discomfort following orthopedic surgery, intervertebral disc disease, soft tissue injuries, obesity and so on. 

Activities you may wish to look at include: 

1. Range of motion and stretching exercises – these exercises are important in the improvement of joint motion and mobility in pets after surgery, or those with chronic orthopedic or musculoskeletal. They help prevent adhesions between soft tissue and bone, improve muscle extensibility and prevent further injury to joints, ligaments, tendons and muscles. 

2. Therapeutic Exercises – The exercises included in your pet’s rehabilitation program can vary depending on diagnosis, but common methods involve standing and walking, controlled leash exercises, treadmill walking, hydrotherapy, stair climbing, jogging, stepping over poles, pulling or carrying weights, exercises with therapy balls and sit-to-stand activities.

Although physical rehabilitation is not a solution for every illness, it can be used to help your pet lead a more active, pain free healthier life for longer. 

If you feel your pet would benefit from physical therapy, please make an appointment with our clinic to discuss the options available.