There are many dogs diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease that do not require surgery. These dogs can be effectively managed with rehabilitation. Early intervention and support is vital, as is a thorough assessment and implementation of a staged rehabilitation treatment plan.
There are many dogs diagnosed with intervertebral disc disease that do not require surgery. These dogs can be effectively managed with rehabilitation. Early intervention and support is vital, as is a thorough assessment and implementation of a staged rehabilitation treatment plan.
In the initial stage following diagnosis of IVDD the aims of physiotherapy will be to:
These above aims continue and progress with time depending on your dog’s progress. Aims will ultimately develop to include the following:
Many different physiotherapeutic modalities can be employed when rehabilitating a dog undergoing conservative management of IVDD. Possible options might include – laser, or and cold therapy, massage, range of motion exercises and stretches, muscle stimulation, hydrotherapy, home exercise programme and advice re: injury prevention.
The following table is an example of a rehabilitation programme our chartered physiotherapists may use with your dog:*
Rehabilitation has a very important role to play during the recovery of a patient following surgery for intervertebral disc disease. Early intervention is crucial. The aims and treatment approach will vary depending on the level of disability your dog has and also the timescale following surgery. The key aims and treatment options are listed below. Your dog’s chartered physiotherapist will constantly re-evaluate progress and adjust the programme accordingly.
Initial phase postop:
Weeks 4-6:
Week 6 ongoing:
Similar physiotherapeutic modalities to conservative management of IVDD can be employed when rehabilitating a dog following surgery. Possible options might include – laser, hot and cold therapy, massage, range of motion exercises and stretches, muscle stimulation, hydrotherapy, home exercise programme and advice about injury prevention. The following table is an example of a rehabilitation programme our chartered physiotherapists may use with your dog.*
*Please note that rehabilitation plans should only be followed under the guidance of a qualified rehabilitation professional, who will be able to provide a tailored plan based on the individual patient’s rehabilitation needs.
Hydrotherapy is invaluable when rehabilitating patients following surgery. The buoyancy of the water supports the patient against gravity and allows effective exercise to take place. The warmth of the water provides a source of relief for any discomfort present and the hydrostatic pressure assists in swelling reduction.
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