Simply put, animal physiotherapy is just like human physiotherapy. Just like us they need assistance after an injury, an operation, or to cope with longer term medical conditions. Although the list below is not exhaustive, it does highlight some of the typical cases we see on a daily basis.
Canine & small animal
Surgical procedures
(Physiotherapy will normally commence within 24-48 hours post surgery)
Cruciate Ligament
Hip replacement
Patella Luxation
Total knee replacement
Disk Laminectomy
Elbow Arthroscopy
Ununited Anconeal Process
Carpal Hyperextension
Conservative management
(A longer term plan is put in place to allow the animal to cope)
Arthritis
Hip Dysplasia
Elbow Dysplasia
Shoulder Instability
Subluxating Patella
Degenerative Disk Disease
Osteochondritis Dissecans (OCD)
Cervical Spondylomyelopathy
Although small animal and canine surgery is relatively common, it does always carry a risk to the animal. That is why many vets will try and manage a condition with physiotherapy to avoid surgery if it is the best interests of the animal
Equine
Surgery is less common in horses, simply due to the complications that arise from their size - this doesnt mean their conditions are any less severe
Surgical proceedures
(Many horses also benefit from "pre"habilitation plans, to optimise recovery post surgery)
Kissing Spines
Tendon and Ligament Surgery
Splint Bone Removal
Fractures
Arthroscopy/Tenoscopy
Upward fixation of patella
Colic surgery (wound management)
Conservative management
(A common approach is for the therapist to oversee an at-yard programme of treatment and exercise)
All forms of arthritis
Kissing spines
Wobblers
Musculoskeletal injuries
Generalised lameness
Ataxia
Conditioning and fittening
