5 things you didn't know about animal physiotherapy

Animal physiotherapy specializes in promoting the physical and mental health and well-being of animals that have or may have mobility issues for various reasons. We'll share some facts you may not know about this field of veterinary medicine.

It is a veterinary specialization

Animal physiotherapy is a specialized discipline that focuses on the functional recovery, pain reduction, and general well-being of animals.

In order to apply this form of therapy professionally, sound veterinary knowledge is essential – because it forms the basis for safe and targeted treatment.

Physiotherapy complements traditional treatment methods, accompanies rehabilitation processes, improves mobility and contributes significantly to the quality of life of our animal patients.

It is not only useful after operations or serious injuries

It is a common misconception that physical therapy should only be initiated after orthopedic surgery. However, physical therapy is actually extremely useful even before any surgical procedure to prepare the structures to be treated and thus facilitate recovery.

For example, in a surgery such as repairing a torn cruciate ligament in the knee, it is very helpful to strengthen the muscles in the area before surgery. This ensures that the traumatized tissue can regain its function more quickly after surgery and the patient experiences less pain during the postoperative recovery process.

In addition, the patient is already familiar with the therapy and finds it easier.

Helpful for overweight animals

Obesity in animals can have several serious health consequences. In addition to dietary changes, it's also important to manage energy expenditure and pay attention to the condition of joints and muscles, which can be affected by this process. Physiotherapy plays a very important role in developing an adapted exercise program and good habits to maintain adequate physical fitness.

Older animals benefit greatly

As our furry friends age, various changes in their health become apparent. The most common conditions include joint degeneration and loss of muscle mass, which lead to pain, stiffness, and limited mobility, significantly impacting the animal's quality of life.

Physiotherapy is a very useful tool in this case, as it allows for better pain control, slows degenerative processes in the joints, strengthens muscles, and improves tissue oxygenation. All of this leads to a better quality of life for older animals.

It is recommended for sporty and active dogs

Nowadays it is very common for dogs to develop in different sports and this, just like in humans, can lead to minor or serious injuries of the musculoskeletal system that can affect the physical fitness of these animals and force them to give up their favorite activity.

Therefore, it is important to support the recovery process after strenuous physical exertion and to prepare well for it. This helps maintain the health of joints, muscles, and bones and improves athletic performance.

Through customized protocols that include active and passive exercises and various therapies using specialized equipment, physiotherapy helps in the preparation, maintenance, and recovery of sporting animals.

If you would like to learn more about animal physiotherapy and other exciting topics, please check out our other articles !