Intro to Physiotherapy + Electrotherapies

What is physiotherapy?

- Physical techniques

- Helps in the treatment or long-term management of many conditions

Principles of physiotherapy

- Decrease pain

- Decrease inflammation

- Restore joint range of movement

- Restore normal muscle activity

- Prevent recurrence of injury

Conditions which may benefit from physiotherapy

- Ligamentous sprain

- Muscle strain

- Post-op recovery from orthopaedic ops

- Spinal pain

- Osteoarthritis

- Hip dysplasia

- Joint pain

- Restriction of movement

- Neurological damage

Rules regarding physiotherapy

- Carried out under the veterinary surgeon's directions

- Started slowly and built up as the patient improves

- Patient comfort and gentle handling

- Patients should be well hydrated before treatment

What is passive physiotherapy?

No active muscle action from the patient

What is active physiotherapy?

Patient actively using the muscles/joints (can be assisted)

What is a benefit of passive physiotherapy?

Reduce joint and muscle stiffness

What is a benefit of active physiotherapy?

Promote recovery and build up physical strength and mobility

What is the aim of both passive and active physiotherapy?

Reduce joint and muscle stiffness

Electrotherapies - Ultrasound

- High frequency sound waves are used to treat muscle, tendon and soft tissue injury

- Warms tissues and promotes healing

Electrotherapies - Laser therapy

- Increase tissue healing

- Reduce pain and inflammation