BLOG: Therapeutic rehab available for animals

Therapeutic rehab is now widely available for animals who have had sports injury or after an orthopedic surgery. 

Veterinarians can become certified in animal therapeutic rehabilitation for cats, dogs, horses or even exotic animals like giraffes.

Rehab techniques are similar to humans including cold therapy, thermal treatments with ultrasound and laser or exercise pools to improve range of motion.  Electrotherapy like the human TENS units may be applied to give short term pain relief. Laser are also being used to give deep penetrating heat to muscles and joints.   

Rehab should only be used under the supervision of a veterinarian because some therapy can actually be detrimental to recovering animal patient.  Heat or laser applied too soon after surgery may increase swelling and extend recovery.  Ice applied too long after surgery will not be of much benefit and if applied to nerve damaged tissue may cause further injury.

Contact your veterinarian to receive a referral to the closest Certified Veterinary Rehab Specialist in your area