PHYSIOTHERAPY | REHABILITATION
Manual Therapy for Dogs and Cats
What is manual therapy?
Manual therapy for animals is a hands-on treatment approach used by veterinary rehabilitation professionals to address a range of musculoskeletal issues and promote optimal movement and function in pets. At RehabVet Clinic, our skilled therapists employ a variety of manual techniques tailored to your pet’s individual needs, ensuring their health and well-being are prioritised.
Manual therapy can be effective in treating a variety of conditions, including arthritis, post-operative recovery, sports injuries, and neurological disorders. It is often used in conjunction with other therapies, such as hydrotherapy, laser therapy, and therapeutic exercises, as part of a comprehensive rehabilitation plan.
What are the benefits of manual therapy?
Benefits of manual therapy for dogs and cats include:
-
Pain relief: Alleviates discomfort from conditions such as arthritis and injuries.
-
Improved mobility: Enhances joint function, flexibility, and overall movement.
-
Faster recovery: Supports post-operative healing and rehabilitation from injuries.
-
Reduced inflammation: Manual techniques can decrease swelling and promote circulation.
-
Muscle relaxation: Relieves muscle tension, spasms, and stiffness.
-
Enhanced performance: Beneficial for athletic and working animals, improving their abilities.
-
Complementary treatment: Works alongside other therapies for comprehensive pet care.
At RehabVet Clinic, our experienced therapists utilise manual therapy to ensure your pets experience these benefits, improving their health and well-being.
What are the types of manual therapies?
Types of manual therapies for dogs and cats include:
-
Joint mobilisation: Gentle manipulation to improve joint range of motion and alleviate pain.
-
Soft tissue mobilisation: Techniques such as massage and myofascial release to target muscles, tendons, and ligaments.
-
Stretching exercises: Guided movements to maintain and enhance flexibility and joint health.
-
Manual lymphatic drainage: Stimulates the lymphatic system to reduce swelling and boost immunity.
-
Passive range of motion (PROM) exercises: Therapists move pets’ limbs to maintain joint mobility and prevent stiffness.
What specific conditions can manual therapy treat in animals?
Manual therapy can treat various conditions in animals, including:
-
Arthritis: Eases joint pain and improves mobility in affected pets.
-
Post-operative recovery: Supports healing and rehabilitation after surgeries.
-
Sports injuries: Addresses muscle strains, ligament tears, and tendon injuries.
-
Neurological disorders: Assists with muscle function and coordination in pets with neurological conditions.
-
Chronic pain: Alleviates discomfort from ongoing issues like hip dysplasia.
-
Muscle stiffness and spasms: Relaxes tense muscles and reduces spasms.
At RehabVet Clinic, our skilled therapists utilise manual therapy techniques to address these conditions and more, promoting optimal health and well-being for your pets.