Pets also experience physical and mental trauma, which is why medical experts are broadening their clientele. Dermatologists, surgeons, oncologists, experts in internal medicine, as well as behavioral and physical therapists, may now all assess dogs for various health issues. Animal rehabilitation institutions offer specialised veterinary treatment, and these facilities are everywhere.
Pet physical therapy is well-known for its advantages, but many customers are unaware of the other options accessible to them.
Why Does Your Dog Need Physical Rehabilitation?
The goal of veterinary physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) is to improve and restore pets’ functional abilities and quality of life. As a result of a brain, spinal cord, nervous system, or other physical impairments or disabilities, they may not be as able to do their daily tasks.
Physical therapy for cats and dogs aims to help pets become more independent and happier in their everyday lives. It may help your pet recover from orthopedic surgery, treat neurologic illness, alleviate pain and stiffness caused by arthritis or degenerative joint disease, and repair soft tissue damage.
Ways to Tell Your Pet Is in Need of Physical Therapy
It’s easy to tell whether your pet is in discomfort when they show it. They may droop, scream, or pant more than usual if they are in discomfort. However, it’s not always easy to tell whether your pet is in pain, particularly if it results from a long-term condition. The following are non-verbal symptoms of suffering that you may be overlooking:
- Reluctance to get out of bed or lie down
- Reluctance to climb stairs or perch on a sofa
- The unwillingness to go for walks
- Increased sleep duration and less hunger
Regarding your pet’s general health and well-being, there’s no substitute for consulting with your veterinarian. They can rule out other possible causes of illness by doing a comprehensive assessment that includes bloodwork and radiography. If your veterinarian determines that your pet requires rehabilitative services, he or she will make a referral to one.
Is Physical Rehabilitation Beneficial?
In humans, animal physical therapy has numerous advantages, and it may also provide these advantages to your pet. These advantages include quicker and better recovery, less discomfort and inflammation, and greater functioning and mobility.
Listed below are some therapeutic treatments your pet can receive.
Cold Therapy Laser
This is a relatively new procedure that is gaining in popularity. The cold laser has an effect on the cells at the molecular level. Pain and healing may be reduced by reducing inflammation and increasing blood flow.
Passive range of motion (PROM) exercises.
Passive range of motion (PROM) exercises. This helps to increase the joint’s flexibility and range of motion.
Underwater Treadmill
In rehabilitation institutions, this kind of animal physical therapy is becoming more and more frequent. A terrific technique to get your pet moving without stressing their joints.
The intensity of the workout may be adjusted by adding water to the swimming tank. The pet has to carry less weight when the water level is greater.
The water level decreases and the pace increases as your pet becomes stronger. As your pet’s strength increases, so do the length of the training sessions.
Cold and Heat Therapy
Heat and cold treatment, much as in people, may be quite beneficial in the process of physical rehabilitation and goes hand in hand with PROM. Cold treatment lowers inflammation and post-exercise soreness while warm compresses assist warm up the muscles.
Obstacle Course
Patients with neurological impairments may benefit from these classes by improving their balance, dexterity, and paw placement. Many different types of obstacles are possible in these kinds of setups.
Therapeutic Ultrasound
An ultrasonic wave that increases muscular activation may be found here. This therapy utilises heat to aid in healing and strengthening muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
Conclusion
Physical therapy treatment and rehabilitation can be extremely beneficial for your pet, particularly if they suffer from mobility issues or pain. A physical therapist can help to design a bespoke rehabilitation programme which will help to improve your pet’s quality of life and increase their mobility.
If you are considering physical therapy treatment for your pet, it is important to consult with a qualified professional to ensure that it is the right decision of your pet’s individual needs.
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