Physiotherapy optimises musculoskeletal function

So what does this mean?

How animals move is complicated!

If there is a problem with any part of the animal, for example pain in a foot, it impacts on the rest of the animal which then compensates to try and avoid the pain. This leads to asymmetries in movement which if left untreated can lead to pathologies or problems developing in other areas due to tension in soft tissue or overloading of other limbs. These asymmetries if unresolved can remain even after the pain in the foot has disappeared.

The Veterinary Physiotherapist is trained to recognise small changes in gait and using information gained from the history of the animal along with findings from a hands on assessment can release restricted areas of soft tissue, provide alternative pain relief, and advise on exercises either to build muscle or enhance co-ordination or proprioception.

Conditions physiotherapy can benefit:

  • Arthritis and osteoarthritis

  • Osteochondritis dessicans (OCD)

  • Strained muscles, tendons or ligaments

  • Restricted fascia

  • Bone injuries

  • Neurological conditions

  • Muscle wastage

  • Back issues

  • Wound healing

  • Pre and post surgery

  • Rider related issues

  • Pain