|
|
|
|
|
 |
|
|
As a chartered animal physiotherapist the most important tool we use is our hands. Here are descriptions of the most common manual therapies we use.
|
This is a treatment technique used mainly in equine physiotherapy. It is very effective at reducing muscle spasm. A slap is applied to the muscle on one side of the spine to cause relaxation in the opposite muscle thus reducing muscle spasm and pain in the affected muscles. This will help the horse move correctly as it will increase the muscle and joint mobility.
|
Maitland mobilisations are a type of joint mobilisation that can be used on spinal and peripheral joints. They can be used to decrease pain, reduce muscle spasm and increase range of movement.
|
|
This treatment is effective on problems within specific muscle groups. It is useful for both acute and chronic muscle injuries. A consistent pressure is applied to the affected muscle and this causes a decrease in muscle spasm and thus increases muscle and joint mobility and reduces pain.
|
Various massage techniques can be used during acute and chronic phases of injury to the musculo-skeletal system. Massage aims to:
- Reduce muscle spasm
- Increase/maintain mobility of muscles/ joints
- Promote circulation and aid lymphatic drainage
- Increase proprioception
- Increase sensory awareness
We often teach owners massage techniques to do on their own animals specific to the problems found on assessment. |
|
|
Passive joint movements can be used to increase/maintain muscle and joint range of movement.
Stretches are used to prevent complications and increase range of movement.
These are also taught to owners to they can be done on a daily basis.
.
|
We use hydrotherapy to help the quality and rate of healing following surgery or traumatic injury. Please see our special section on hydrotherapy for more information.
- Relief of pain, swelling and stiffness
- Alleviating muscle spasm
- Muscle strengthening and maintenance
- Improved circulation
- Increased tissue healing
- Increased speed of recover
|
 |
You can phone us directly to discuss your animal’s problem and we will then contact your vet to gain approval to see the animal. This is a standard legal requirement of our profession and our strong working relationship with the vets ensures this is a matter of routine. Alternatively your vet will refer your animal for physiotherapy and we will arrange to see the animal. We assess and treat at your yard, at your home or on vet’s premises – whatever is the most appropriate.
So call us today on 0845 300 9032 (local rate call) or 07801 270053 for more information, to book an appointment or simply to discuss a problem you think your animal may have.
|
|
|
|
