Q: How will physiotherapy help my dog heal after surgery?
A: Occasionally, surgery is the only option for dogs suffering from musculoskeletal problems. It can be a stressful experience for both the client and the patient, and often involves weeks of special care and activity restriction.
Just like human physiotherapists who assist people after surgery, physiotherapists for animals are there to help with:
- increasing the rate and quality of healing (of the incision site and the underlying tissue).
- maintaining joint health and range of motion.
- decreasing the rate and severity of muscle atrophy.
- decreasing post-operative pain and inflammation.
- managing compensatory mechanisms that develop as a result of abnormal weight shifting and/or gait patterns.
- achieving pre-operative levels of activity and functionality (where possible).
- guiding the owner through the entire process from surgery to recovery.
Physiotherapists use science-based interventions, such as:
- manual therapy (like massage, mobilisations)
- electrotherapy (like therapeutic laser, therapeutic ultrasound)
- cryotherapy (like cold therapy)
- heat therapy
- kinesiology tape (like sports strapping)
- underwater and/or land treadmill
- specific exercises to achieve the benefits listed above.
Caleigh Snyman, veterinary rehabilitation therapist
