Veterinary Physiotherapy (VP) and Hydrotherapy​

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• Canine Veterinary Physiotherapy (VP) and Hydrotherapy offer significant benefits for a wide range of musculoskeletal, neurological conditions. These therapies provide a comprehensive, low-impact solution to improve mobility, strength, and overall quality of life. By combining manual therapy techniques, exercise rehabilitation,electrotherapies and aquatic therapy we can address multiple aspects of recovery and health. Some of the most common conditions that respond well to Veterinary Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy include:

• Arthritis (Osteoarthritis) – Veterinary Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy are highly effective in managing osteoarthritis and other forms of degenerative joint disease. These therapies help reduce synovial inflammation, improve joint range of motion, and enhance functional movement by promoting muscle strength and improved circulation, thus reducing pain and discomfort in weight-bearing joints.

• Hip Dysplasia – Veterinary Physiotherapy combined with Hydrotherapy can strengthen the muscles around the coxofemoral joint (hip joint), improving joint stability and increasing range of motion. The resistance of water helps enhance muscle tone and proprioceptive feedback, enabling more comfortable and efficient movement in dogs with hip dysplasia.

• Post-Surgical Rehabilitation – After surgeries such as cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) repair, total hip replacement (THR), or arthroplasty, Hydrotherapy accelerates the healing process by promoting controlled movement, improving circulation, and reducing muscle atrophy. This non-weight-bearing exercise helps restore muscle strength and flexibility while minimising stress on healing tissues and surgical sites.

• Neurological Conditions – Dogs with neurological deficits (such as degenerative myelopathy, fibrocartilaginous embolism, or post-surgical recovery) benefit greatly from the buoyancy and resistance of Hydrotherapy. These features support the dog’s ability to perform controlled, low-impact exercises that improve proprioception, movement patterns, and coordination.

• Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD) – Veterianary  physiotherapy and hydrotherapy is particularly beneficial for dogs recovering from spinal injuries, including intervertebral disc disease (IVDD). By reducing spinal compression and providing buoyant support, aquatic therapy allows for gentle rehabilitation, enhancing muscle tone and improving neurological function. This helps alleviate pain, reduce inflammation, and promote recovery by increasing proprioception and motor coordination.

• Muscle Atrophy –Veterianary  physiotherapy and hydrotherapy plays a crucial role in the rehabilitation of dogs suffering from muscle atrophy caused by disuse, injury, or surgery. Veterinary Physiotherapy exercises focus on improving muscle tone, strength, and endurance without overloading compromised structures.

• Chronic Pain – Dogs suffering from chronic pain, utilisation of the warm water promotes vasodilation, improving circulation and lymphatic drainage, while also relaxing muscle spasms and reducing myofascial pain. Combined with manual therapy techniques, this can significantly improve pain management

• Post-Fracture Recovery – After a fracture, Hydrotherapy is an excellent adjunct to rehabilitation. The buoyant properties of water reduce the load on the healing bone, allowing the dog to regain range of motion and muscle strength around the injured area with minimal stress on the fracture site. Water exercises also help in preventing joint stiffness and muscle wasting during the healing process.

• Aging Conditions – Older dogs often experience age-related conditions of muscle weakness, and reduced mobility. Veterinary Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy can significantly improve the strength, flexibility, and joint function of senior dogs, helping them maintain a higher level of physical activity and comfort in their later years. These therapies can also improve circulation and balance and proprioception enhancing their overall quality of life.

• Veterinary Physiotherapy and Hydrotherapy are powerful, non-invasive therapeutic modalities that promote healing, alleviate pain, and improve functional recovery. These treatments help dogs recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions, and enhance overall mobility with minimal risk of further injury.

• By addressing both musculoskeletal and neurological health, these therapies provide an effective, compassionate approach to maintaining your dog's physical and emotional well-being.

 

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