Physiotherapy Aims

• Reduce inflammation
• Reduce muscle spasm
• Maintain soft tissue flexibility
• Increase sensory awareness
• Increase strength
• Advise owners of home care management requirements

Weeks 4-6:

• Activate core muscles
• Progress with the above aim
• Improve balance and coordination
• Enhance gait patterns

Week 6 ongoing:

• Increase exercise tolerance and cardiovascular fitness
• Increase core stability and strength
• Return to normal function

Physiotherapy Options

Similar physiotherapeutic modalities to conservative management of IVDD can be employed when rehabilitating a dog following surgery.

Possible options might include – laser therapy, acupuncture, massage, range of motion exercises and stretches, muscle stimulation, hydrotherapy, a home exercise program and advice regarding injury prevention.

Hydrotherapy Options

Please take the time to understand the differences between hydrotherapy, underwater treadmill, and fun swimming. There are also contraindications and cautions of hydrotherapy for your dog, particularly when in recovery from IVDD. You should be aware of this before engaging your recovering dogs in any form of in-water activities.

Not also hydrotherapists understand this and not all dogs like water and this can cause more damage to good with a recovering IVDD dog! The aim when rehabilitating your hound is that it isn’t a race.  Slow and steady.