YORKSHIRE ANIMAL CLINIC

PHYSIOTHERAPY

What's it all about?

The purpose of physiotherapy is to restore and maintain mobility, function, independence and performance, whether this be for a horse who competes or an ageing companion dog. Assessments typically involve obtaining a detailed history, observing and analysing movement as well as a thorough physical examination. As physiotherapists we work alongside veterinary diagnoses and all referrals must be consented to and approved by a vet prior to the initial assessment.

CANINE PHYSIOTHERAPY

Would my dog benefit?

It's not just sporting, working and agility dogs that can benefit from physiotherapy, those who have had surgery, suffered trauma or even ageing or obese dogs can reap the benefits too. Some acute injuries and conditions (such as muscle strains and fractures) may only require a short period of rehabilitation, whereas other conditions such as arthritis and hip dysplasia may need a more long-term management approach. Whatever the need, a thorough physiotherapy assessment could help to restore your friends function and improve their quality of life. It's also important to mention that physiotherapy for small animals is not limited only to dogs but can benefit cats and rabbits too!

EQUINE PHYSIOTHERAPY

What can I expect?

Reduced performance? Changes in behaviour? Schooling problems? Lameness? These problems can occur for a number of reasons but are often your horses way of letting you know that something isn't right. In the absence of an obvious injury, trauma or condition, your horse may be experiencing pain, stiffness, weakness or instability. A physiotherapy assessment could help to highlight such issues and treat them accordingly through the use of different therapeutic techniques such as manual therapy, electrotherapy and exercise.

HYDROTHERAPY

Tell me more...

In many rehabilitation cases, a programme of combined hydrotherapy and physiotherapy can offer a number of benefits to your canine companion's recovery and well being. Whether this be swimming in the pool or walking in the water treadmill, the buoyancy effect of water reduces the load on weight bearing joints making it a safe and comfortable environment to exercise in.

Physiotherapists that are professionally regulated by the CSP and ACPAT means that they are qualified to undertake both human and animal physiotherapy assessments. The partnership between horse and rider cannot be under-estimated and if as a rider you know you are carrying an injury or are imbalanced in the saddle, this can impact on your horses way of going. A horse and rider consultation would be highly recommended in this situation. Equally if you are struggling to run around the agility course or even walk your dog due to injury or pain - give us a shout! We're more than happy to help.