What to Expect
Initial Assessment
Diane will provide a thorough assessment which will include: static and dynamic assessments followed by palpation and range of motion to highlight target areas requiring treatment. She will also ask questions to get a full picture of you and your animals' life including likes/dislikes and management to tailor her treatment plans to you and your pets' needs!
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In this session, the aim is to identify any abnormalities affecting movement, areas of tension and weakness, asymmetries or pain and inflammation. All this information will be used alongside the full veterinary history provided by your vet to make a custom bespoke treatment plan!
Static Assessment
i.e. How the animal is standing, sitting or lying
Static assessment is a visual assessment in which the veterinary physiotherapist assesses your pet's posture and conformation.
Physiotherapy Treatment
The modalities and equipment used
Your pet will have a bespoke treatment plan made based on their case and individual needs which may include some of the following:
LASER Therapy
LASER therapy has been found to provide pain relief, reduced inflammation and an improved rate and quality of healing from scientific research. LASER is beneficial in treating a range of conditions including orthopaedic eg osteoarthritis, neurological and musculoskeletal.
Manual Therapies
This forms the basis of treatment which begins with identifying areas which we want to target through palpation. We will use massage, myofascial release, trigger point therapy, stretches, joint mobilisations and manipulations to treat identified areas.
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Manual therapies aim to promote increased circulation, relaxation, pain relief, reduce muscle tension and remove trigger points which promotes improved mobility and comfort as a result.
Electrotherapies
Pulses electromagnetic field therapy (PEME),  ultrasound (US), transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) and neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) form part of this group. These increase circulation, reduce muscle spasm, pain, muscle wastage and improve muscle strength and joint movement.
Thermal Modalities
Heat and ice can be applied under direction of a veterinary physiotherapist. Ice to reduce swelling, joint inflammation and improve comfort. Heat to aid warm ups, increasing circulation and elasticity in muscles and overall performance.
Remedial Exercises
We will create a bespoke treatment plan including a home exercise plan for you to complete with your pet to see maximum benefits and results. The exercises will aid performance enhancement, and improve balance, muscular strength, core strength, range of motion, suppleness and overall movement.
