
Dr. Sara Lam
Lead Veterinarian
BVSc (Sydney), CCRT, CVA
Veterinary oversight for every rehabilitation plan — ensuring safe, clinically appropriate care for your pet.

Deep tissue healing through high-frequency sound waves — completely painless
Therapeutic ultrasound uses high-frequency sound waves (typically 1–3 MHz) to deliver energy deep into body tissues. Unlike diagnostic ultrasound — which creates images of internal structures — therapeutic ultrasound treats tissue by promoting cellular healing, reducing inflammation, breaking down scar tissue, and providing pain relief at the tissue level.
The ultrasound transducer is moved continuously over the skin surface using a water-based coupling gel. Sound waves penetrate through the skin and into deeper structures — muscles, tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules — reaching tissues that cannot be effectively treated with surface-level heat or manual therapy alone.
Therapeutic ultrasound works through two main mechanisms: thermal effects (continuous mode generates controlled deep tissue heating that increases blood flow, relaxes muscle spasm, and improves tissue extensibility) and non-thermal effects (pulsed mode produces acoustic streaming and cavitation that stimulate cell membrane activity, fibroblast proliferation, and collagen production without significant heating).
At RehabVet, therapeutic ultrasound is prescribed by our veterinary team and delivered by qualified rehabilitation therapists. We select between continuous and pulsed modes, adjust intensity and frequency, and target specific tissues based on your pet’s diagnosis and treatment phase. Ultrasound is most effective when integrated into a comprehensive physical therapy programme.

Feature Ultrasound Laser Therapy NMES Mechanism Sound waves (mechanical) Light energy (photons) Electrical current Depth 2–5 cm deep tissue 2–4 cm penetration Superficial muscles Best for Tendons, scar tissue, joints Inflammation, wounds Muscle strengthening Sensation Gentle warmth None–mild warmth Tingling, muscle twitch
Veterinary-grade equipment, expert therapists, integrated treatment programmes
Veterinary-grade therapeutic ultrasound equipment
We use professional-grade therapeutic ultrasound units with adjustable frequency (1 MHz and 3 MHz), intensity, and mode settings — enabling precise treatment tailored to each tissue type and condition.
Part of a comprehensive programme — not standalone
Ultrasound is most effective when combined with other modalities. At RehabVet, we integrate it into multimodal programmes with manual therapy, exercises, hydrotherapy, and laser therapy for optimal results.
Qualified rehabilitation therapists
Every ultrasound treatment is delivered by therapists with internationally recognised rehabilitation qualifications, under direct veterinary supervision from Dr. Sara Lam BVSc.
Condition-specific protocols
We don't apply generic settings. Treatment parameters — mode (continuous vs pulsed), frequency, intensity, duration, and technique — are selected based on your pet's specific diagnosis and treatment phase.
Treats dogs and cats
Our therapists have extensive experience with both canine and feline patients. Treatment parameters are adapted for each species' unique tissue characteristics and body size.
Objective progress tracking
We measure outcomes objectively — joint range of motion, tissue flexibility, pain scores, and functional mobility — so you can see concrete improvement, not just subjective impressions.
Two modes, two mechanisms — tailored to your pet’s condition
Integration with Other Modalities
The session continues with other prescribed modalities — manual therapy while tissues are warm and extensible, therapeutic exercises to build on improved flexibility, or hydrotherapy for active strengthening.
Delivers sustained deep tissue heating — reaching muscles, tendons, and joints that surface heat packs cannot.
Delivers sustained deep tissue heating — reaching muscles, tendons, and joints that surface heat packs cannot.
Delivers mechanical energy in short bursts — promoting cellular healing without significant tissue heating.
Best for: acute injuries, wound healing, tendon repair, post-surgical recovery
Evidence-based outcomes for tissue healing, pain relief, and recovery
1. Non-invasive and painless treatment
Therapeutic ultrasound is completely non-invasive — there are no needles, no incisions, and no sedation required. The handheld transducer glides over the skin surface, delivering sound waves deep into the tissue. Most pets find the gentle warmth soothing, and many relax or fall asleep during treatment. Sessions are stress-free for even anxious patients.
2. Accelerated tissue healing
Ultrasound waves stimulate fibroblast activity and collagen production at the cellular level, accelerating the repair of damaged tendons, ligaments, muscles, and joint capsules. Studies in veterinary rehabilitation demonstrate that therapeutic ultrasound can reduce healing time by 20–30% compared to rest alone — particularly important for tendon and ligament injuries where blood supply is naturally limited.
3. Deep tissue pain relief
Ultrasound provides analgesia through two mechanisms: thermal effects (gentle deep heating relaxes muscle spasm and increases pain threshold) and non-thermal effects (acoustic streaming and cavitation modulate pain signalling at the cellular level). This dual mechanism provides effective pain relief for both acute injuries and chronic conditions.
4. Reduced inflammation
Therapeutic ultrasound modulates the inflammatory response — reducing excessive inflammation while supporting the body's natural healing process. The increased blood flow and cellular activity promoted by ultrasound help clear inflammatory mediators and debris from injured tissues, reducing swelling and discomfort.
5. Improved blood circulation
Ultrasound waves increase local blood flow to the treated area, delivering oxygen and nutrients essential for tissue repair while removing metabolic waste products. This enhanced circulation is particularly beneficial for structures with naturally poor blood supply — tendons, ligaments, and joint capsules — where healing is often slow.
6. Scar tissue breakdown and remodelling
One of therapeutic ultrasound's most valuable applications is breaking down restrictive scar tissue and adhesions. By applying targeted sound energy, ultrasound can soften and remodel disorganised collagen fibres, restoring flexibility and function to tissues that have healed with excessive scarring. This is essential after surgery, fractures, and tendon injuries.
7. Enhanced joint flexibility
Ultrasound increases the extensibility of collagen-rich structures — joint capsules, tendons, and ligaments — making them more responsive to stretching and mobilisation. When combined with manual therapy and therapeutic exercises, ultrasound helps restore range of motion in stiff or contracted joints more effectively than manual therapy alone.
8. Muscle relaxation and spasm relief
The thermal effects of ultrasound penetrate deeper than surface heat packs, reaching muscles that lie beneath multiple tissue layers. This deep heating relaxes muscle spasm, reduces trigger point sensitivity, and prepares muscles for therapeutic exercise — making it an ideal pre-treatment before manual therapy sessions.
9. Complementary to other modalities
Therapeutic ultrasound integrates seamlessly with manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, laser therapy, and hydrotherapy. At RehabVet, we typically use ultrasound as part of a multimodal treatment programme — preparing tissues for stretching, enhancing the effects of exercise therapy, and accelerating recovery between sessions.
10. Safe for long-term and repeated use
Unlike medications that carry risks of organ damage with prolonged use, therapeutic ultrasound can be safely repeated over extended treatment periods. There are no systemic side effects, no drug interactions, and no withdrawal concerns. This makes it ideal for managing chronic conditions where ongoing treatment is needed.
From tendon injuries to post-surgical scar tissue — therapeutic ultrasound addresses a wide range of musculoskeletal conditions in dogs and cats.

Tendon and ligament injuries
Tendon injuries — including supraspinatus tendinopathy, Achilles tendon strains, and biceps tendinitis — are among the primary indications for therapeutic ultrasound. The treatment stimulates collagen synthesis and remodelling, accelerating tendon repair while improving the quality and organisation of healing tissue. Similarly effective for ligament sprains and partial tears.

Post-surgical scar tissue and adhesions
After orthopaedic surgery (TPLO, TTA, fracture repair, FHO), scar tissue can restrict joint motion and cause ongoing discomfort. Therapeutic ultrasound breaks down adhesions and promotes organised collagen remodelling — restoring flexibility to tissues that have healed with excessive scarring. Particularly valuable when combined with manual therapy and stretching.

Osteoarthritis and degenerative joint disease
Ultrasound provides symptomatic relief for arthritic joints through deep heating, improved circulation, and inflammation modulation. When used as part of a comprehensive arthritis management programme — alongside manual therapy, therapeutic exercises, and weight management — ultrasound contributes to reduced pain and improved joint function.

Muscle strains and contusions
Acute and chronic muscle injuries respond well to therapeutic ultrasound. The treatment reduces inflammation, promotes muscle fibre repair, and prevents the formation of restrictive scar tissue within the muscle belly. Deep heating also relieves muscle spasm and prepares injured muscles for gentle therapeutic exercise.

Joint contractures and stiffness
When joints become stiff due to prolonged immobilisation, post-surgical fibrosis, or chronic disuse, ultrasound increases the extensibility of the periarticular structures — making them more responsive to stretching and mobilisation. This is particularly valuable in the early post-surgical period when joint range of motion needs to be restored.

Chronic pain conditions
For pets with ongoing musculoskeletal pain — whether from arthritis, old injuries, or degenerative conditions — therapeutic ultrasound provides drug-free pain relief through both thermal and non-thermal mechanisms. Regular ultrasound treatments can reduce reliance on pain medications and improve comfort and quality of life.

Wound healing
Therapeutic ultrasound at low intensities (pulsed mode) has been shown to accelerate wound healing by stimulating cell proliferation and collagen deposition. It is particularly useful for chronic or non-healing wounds where conventional management has plateaued.

Feline musculoskeletal conditions
Cats benefit from therapeutic ultrasound just as dogs do — particularly for arthritis (vastly underdiagnosed in cats), post-surgical recovery, and chronic pain. The gentle, non-invasive nature of ultrasound makes it well-tolerated by feline patients. Treatment parameters are adapted for cats' smaller body size and unique physiology.
Transparent pricing — ultrasound is included in comprehensive therapy sessions
Initial consultation + assessment + first session
$150 – $200
Follow-up physical therapy sessions (incl. ultrasound)
$100 – $160
Therapeutic ultrasound is typically integrated into comprehensive physical therapy sessions rather than billed as a standalone treatment. This ensures you receive the full benefit of multimodal therapy — ultrasound combined with manual therapy, exercises, and other modalities — at no additional cost for the ultrasound component.
Many pet insurance policies in Singapore now cover physical therapy and rehabilitation. We recommend contacting your insurer before your first appointment. We provide itemised invoices for insurance claims.
Prefer to chat on WhatsApp?
Message us for a personalised quote — we’re happy to help.
Why the method matters as much as the water
Not all hydrotherapy is the same. The two main forms — underwater treadmill therapy and pool-based swimming — produce different rehabilitation outcomes. Understanding the difference helps explain why RehabVet invested in a purpose-built underwater treadmill.
Feature Underwater Treadmill (RehabVet) Swimming Pool Water depth control Yes — adjustable to the centimetre No — fixed depth Speed control Yes — variable treadmill speed No — depends on the dog Suitable for non-swimmers Yes No Weight-bearing exercise Yes — promotes natural gait Limited — swimming is non-weight-bearing Post-surgical rehab Excellent — controlled, safe movement Risky — hard to control movement Gait retraining Yes — treadmill encourages normal walking No Muscle building Targeted — resistance + walking gait General — swimming uses different muscles Best for Surgery recovery, arthritis, IVDD, neurological rehab General fitness, cardiovascular conditioning
At RehabVet, we use a purpose-built underwater treadmill because it offers precise control over every aspect of your dog’s rehabilitation. Unlike swimming pools, the underwater treadmill allows our therapists to adjust water depth, speed, and resistance in real time — creating a tailored programme that targets your dog’s specific condition. We also offer a saltwater pool for dogs where swimming is clinically appropriate.
Qualified rehabilitation specialists — not general practice vets. Led by Dr. Sara Lam BVSc.

Lead Veterinarian
BVSc (Sydney), CCRT, CVA
Veterinary oversight for every rehabilitation plan — ensuring safe, clinically appropriate care for your pet.

Senior Therapist

Therapist

Hydrotherapist

Hydrotherapist

Client Relations, Marketing & Business Development Manager
Everything pet owners ask about therapeutic ultrasound
Ultrasound therapy is often combined with these modalities for optimal results
Dog Hydrotherapy
Underwater treadmill therapy
Physical Therapy
Comprehensive rehabilitation
Dog Physiotherapy
Manual therapy & exercises
Dog Acupuncture
Pain management & healing
Animal Rehabilitation
Full recovery programmes
TCVM
Chinese veterinary medicine
My family and I would like to thank RehabVet team for the care, dedication, and professionalism shown to our beloved Border Collie, Patches. During his rehabilitation journey, the therapists and staff were always patient, compassionate, and willing to answer our questions. It was evident that they genuinely cared about his well-being and worked hard to help him maintain the best quality of life possible.
Clean environment and knowledgeable people who loves pets. Highly recommended.
Great place for rehab and therapist
The only place that Aiko loves so wholeheartedly, greeting all staffs cheerfully the moment she enters and resting on their thighs after hydrotherapy so peacefully. The trust and demure of your dog tells it all. No bias or pre-conceived perceptions. We were surprised that the first five hydrotherapy sessions have helped to strengthen her hips and improve her level of energy. Sean is just the consummate professional!
This clinic combines effective treatment, compassionate handling, and up-to-date evidence-based rehabilitation tools. My dog has experienced very visible improvement after just a few sessions with them. Very effective. Many pet owners I spoke to at the clinic also gives it a thumbs up. They have a team of well trained and very caring professionals. I have not seen any dogs that are not comfortable with them over here. 👍🏻
We visited Rehabvet as Bruno was having some mobility issues with his hind legs. We had an excellent experience. They structured a massage / exercise / hydro schedule that worked wonders. Bruno is feeling much better now.
This is the best rehab clinic for my dog.
We've been bringing Kuma to RehabVet for physiotherapy and the experience has been outstanding. The team truly cares for every fur patient, and you can feel the warmth and dedication the moment you walk in. A special thank you to Hazel, Kuma's therapist, who is incredibly patient, attentive, and knowledgeable. She not only conducts the sessions with great care but also provides practical advice for us to continue strengthening Kuma's muscles at home and the results really show. Thank you as well to Dr. Sara, Xan, and the entire RehabVet team for the love and professionalism you show to every pet. If your furkid needs rehabilitation or physiotherapy, RehabVet is truly a place you can trust.
Had a very positive experience at the rehab vet. The entire team was professional, gentle, and reassuring throughout the session. Dr Sara was especially wonderful — knowledgeable, patient, and took the time to explain everything clearly without rushing. You can tell she genuinely cares about the animals and their recovery. The facility has also just been renovated and is very clean, modern, and calm, making it a comfortable and conducive environment for both pets and owners. Highly recommended.
We're truly grateful to Dr. Sara, the entire RehabVet team, and especially Xan, who has been exceptionally detailed and patient. The whole team has shown such genuine care throughout Milo's recovery journey. Milo was diagnosed with IVDD Grade 3 in late June 2025. Although he hasn't fully recovered yet, we've seen significant improvement over the past 3.5 months with pain relief treatments, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, acupuncture, and regular exercise sessions. We believe that slowly but surely, Milo will make a full recovery. Never give up!
Haru has been going to rehabvet since Nov 2025 to manage his mobility caused by luxating patellar and hip dysplasia. Thus far, we witnessed huge improvements thru several methods of rehabilitation such as ultrasound/laser therapy, land exercises and hydrotherapy! Aside from the treatments, what made us continue with them is the hospitality of the staff! They are always so welcoming and you could feel the warmth everytime you step into the clinic! Also, they treat your furkid with love and respect. Highly recommended.
I can't recommend RehabVet highly enough! My Happy, a pomeranian with patella luxation grade 3 on her left hind leg and hip dysplasia, has made incredible progress since starting physiotherapy here. The team is so knowledgeable, patient, and genuinely caring. All the therapists were fantastic and tailored the sessions perfectly to Happy's needs. The facilities are clean and well-equipped, and my dog always seemed comfortable and even enjoyed their sessions. If your furry friend needs some extra support, look no further than RehabVet!
We've been taking our dog to Rehab Vet Singapore for about 6–7 years, mainly for EMF therapy, water treadmill sessions, and joint and muscle supplements. After her hip surgery, she needed a comprehensive recovery plan, and the team here has provided just that and more. Their treatments have helped her regain strength and mobility, and the long-term maintenance has been invaluable in keeping her active and comfortable. The staff is knowledgeable, caring, and always focused on her needs. We truly appreciate the dedication they've shown over the years – highly recommend!
Went to RehabVet for a second opinion on a serious limp my husky had developed. They were exceptionally knowledgeable, gave practical advice and were very generous with their time. We moved forward with treatment and the non invasive options they gave have made him much more comfortable and the future is promising. From the first time I reached out via whatsapp they gave clear helpful advice, follow up on treatment, pictures, liaised with pet transportation and more. A really amazing full service experience. Thank you very much.
As a fur mummy, finding people who genuinely care for and love our babies is so important. I've found exactly that here, especially with Judette, Xan, Noelle, and Joyce. My babies, Barley (17yo cat) and Lexi (9yo dog), come in for pain management and rehab sessions, and I'm always completely comfortable with how they're treated. The team is incredibly patient, gentle, and kind, and it shows in the way they handle my pets. So grateful to have found a rehab centre I truly trust. Highly recommended.
My Shih Tzu, August, has osteoarthritis and he was unable to walk. We took him to RehabVet Clinic after reading good reviews about it on Google. Since November 2023, he has been having therapy here and has shown improvement in his mobility under the tender loving care from Dr Sara Lam and the staff members, with special mention and appreciation to Angeline, Joyce, Hui Tze and Shaun. My Puppy King will continue his treatment here as we have trust in this lovely team. Thank you!
Bubble has been with Rehab Vet for years as he grows older and manages his luxating patella. I am truly grateful to Doc Sara, Xan, Sean, Joyce, and the entire rehab team for always taking such wonderful care of Bubble and watching over him during every session. Bubble came from a condition whereby he couldn't even walk, he was paralysed. But really thankful to rehab vet that made the impossible, became possible. Thank you Doc Sara & all Rehab Team
Great team! Brought my dog Bunny in for a consultation because her luxating patella was getting worse. Bunny is an anxious dog so I expected her to be a handful during the consult but she was very calm in the therapists' presence! Shout out to Xan and Noelle for helping her feel at ease in a foreign place. I love the clinic's interior as well, the warm lights and pastel colours are very welcoming for both me and Bunny :)
Rehabvet was recommended to us by our vet because our dog dislocated her hip when she was a puppy. We've been going to Rehabvet for several years now and their standard of care has been consistently high throughout. Special shoutout to Sean for always trying his best to make her visits as comfortable as possible 👍 (She gets easily anxious)!!
Having been to several vets and rehabs with my senior Shih Tzu, my experience at RehabVet has been the best. My only regret was not bringing him here sooner when his issues first came up! My very anxious 15 year old kiddo was diagnosed with IVDD and is unable to move all his limbs voluntarily at all times. After the initial testing and diagnosis by Dr. Sara, he has had a few trips to the Hyperbaric O2 Therapy, Laser Therapy, and Electrical Stimulation with massages. Now, I can tell that he is in less pain and is also more comfortable and less anxious. I would highly recommend RehabVet to anyone thinking about it!
I can't thank Xan and his team at RehabVet enough for the incredible care they've given my dog. After a sudden incident where my dog started dragging both hind legs, the vet diagnosed him with IVDD stage 2. I decided to try physio at RehabVet, and it was the best decision I could have made. Within just 2-3 sessions, my dog's hind legs showed significant improvement—they were no longer wobbly. Now, after 7-8 sessions, he's regained his mobility and is even jumping around at home again. Xan's patience and dedication made all the difference. I highly recommend RehabVet to anyone in need of compassionate, effective care for their pet.
Always a pleasant experience here at RehabVet- clean area, calm ambience and super patient therapists. Staff are very willing to share tips on home care massages and explain in detail how our pups muscles work, gait observation and strength training for them!
Sean is an incredibly caring and skilled rehab therapist. He's gentle, patient, and truly treats every dog like his own. We saw clear improvement in our dog's mobility, and sessions are always handled with professionalism and compassion. Highly recommend!
Have a wonderful experience with the team at Rehab Vet. The staff are warm, friendly, and always patient in answering our enquiries. Their care and professionalism make every visit reassuring.
My senior dog has been with rehabvet since Sept 2025 after her leg surgery. We're happy to see improvement! Everyone is helpful and friendly here. Thanks rehabvet team!
Newly renovated place, more conducive for therapy sessions. Therapists are experienced in handling older dogs. Have been sending my 18 year old dog for therapy for more than a year.
The therapists are patient and helped improved my dog's arthritis condition. They taught us how to massage his joints and told us to use heat therapy.
My dog has been coming to rehabs for hips dysplasia at a young age of 2 years old & now is 10 years old & condition did not detoriate - glad we started early.
Mochi enjoys his physio sessions with Rehabvet. His LP grade reduced from 3 to 2 with regular weekly sessions. The therapists are friendly and always make sure the sessions intensity are suitable for him.
We've sent both our dogs to RehabVet for some years now. Thanks to the staff for always being so welcoming and caring. Butter loves his swim here.