Getting Your Pet Back on Its Paws Faster

Pets can injury themselves in a myriad of ways. It may have tumbled down the stairs or could be recovering from major surgery. Physical therapy has been utilized in human medicine for decades. Now, many of the same advances are being used in veterinary medicine.

Some of the techniques are very high tech and must be performed in the hospital setting. Neuromuscular electrical stimulation and electrical muscle stimulation are used to help prevent muscles from wasting and weakening. Gentle electrical pulses are sent through the muscles causing them to contract. This passive type of exercise can also be used to lessen the soft tissue swelling. It may help to improve the range of motion in joints.

Ultrasound uses high-energy sound waves. When the waves pass through the body, they are converted to heat. Muscle spasms are a common indication for the use of this healing modality. Other reasons why your veterinarian may recommend ultrasound therapy are osteoarthritis, to decrease the chances of scar tissue formation and increase the flexibility of tendons.

Two forms of physical therapy that can be performed at home are massage and range of motion exercises. Massages feel great to people as well as pets. They do not require any special tools, just a loving, gentle touch. Your veterinarian can initially direct you as to which muscle groups you should concentrate on. How fast, or firmly you manipulate your pet’s body will be dictated by your pet. Watch its body language. If he or she tenses, seems uncomfortable, tries to avoid your touch, stop, try something else. You may find that stroking is preferred to kneading, or possibly a combination of the two.

Two forms of physical therapy that can be performed at home are massage and range of motion exercises.

Range of motion exercises are especially excellent for the debilitated pet that has difficulty moving. This type of physical therapy aids in increasing circulation, and redistributing blood and lymphatic supply. The location of injury could initially be very stiff and not allow for more than minimal movement. By warming the area with heated towels and massaging the site first, this may allow the joints to bend more freely.

Always remember that you are trying to help, not hurt. Be patient and gentle. The process could be long one and you may have set backs before your beloved pet responds. It is always possible that your pet may never regain its pre-injury level of activity. This can be frustrating but you will always know you have done your best and this is important because it is “Your Pet…Health Matters.”