Physiotherapy for your dog

 Veterinary Physiotherapy can benefit your dog by promoting pain free function, improving range of movement and optimising the healing process.  

As a Chartered ACPAT Physiotherapist I able to help your dog with the following conditions in conjunction with your veterinarian: 

• Back pain 
• Neck pain 
• Elbow/hip dysplasia and compensatory issues arising from this 
• Neurological conditions 
• Soft tissue injury including muscle strain 
• Post-operative rehabilitation including Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) 
• Joint stiffness 
• Lameness and compensatory movement patterns  
• Chronic degenerative conditions including osteoarthritis and long-term management  
• Rehabilitation post injury (including orthopaedics) 
• Management of the older dog (maintenance of muscle, optimising joint range and reducing pain) 
• Muscle atrophy, tightness and weakness 

 Behavioural changes may also be an indication that your dog is uncomfortable and could benefit from a physiotherapy assessment and treatment. Dogs can get muscle aches and pains in a similar way that humans do. The following behavioural changes may warrant physiotherapy intervention:

• Reluctance to be brushed  
• Struggling to jump up onto the sofa 
• Reluctance to play 
• Struggling to go up and down the stairs 
• Difficulty getting in and out of the car 

Maintenance and performance physiotherapy can also be beneficial for working dogs and agility/sporting dogs to optimise function and aid prevention of injuries.

 Each session, whether it be initial or follow up, will begin with a thorough subjective and objective assessment. Following this a comprehensive management plan will be made including treatment on the day as appropriate, and a bespoke home exercise plan (including environmental advice and exercise guidance). All goals will be made in conjunction with yourself, tailored for you and your dog. Hands on treatment options include, but are not limited to: 

• Manual therapy including joint mobilisations 
• Myofascial release 
• Soft tissue techniques including massage and trigger point release 
• Stretches 
• Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) 
• Class 3B laser 
• Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) 
• Biomag pulsed electromagnetic field therapy (PEMF) 
• Proprioceptive and balance rehabilitation