Dog Physical Therapy 1: Keep Your Dog Moving

Dog arthritis may be a debilitating disease; however, there are many forms of treatments available, including medications that help relieve symptoms to surgical procedures to repair tissue damage in the joints. Nonetheless, there are simple ways in which you can improve your dog’s condition. 

Dog physical therapy has become an important part in recovery process after surgery as well as in the management of pain and joint inflammation caused by dog arthritis. The following are some of the benefits of physical therapy:

• It prevents the muscles from shrinking.
• It speeds up the healing process.
• It helps decrease dog arthritis symptoms.
• It improves the overall health of your dog.

Although dog physical therapy is essential for treating dog arthritis, dog owners should be very careful not to overdo it. Improper physical therapy can cause injury and further worsen your dog’s condition.

Muscle Stretching

When muscles are not used, it can result in contracture wherein muscle tissue is replaced by scar tissue. The quadriceps, the muscle group found in front of thigh, is especially susceptible. To keep the muscle tissues healthy, stretching is needed. Gentle and persistent pressure should be used.

Passive Range of Motion

Initially, vets and licensed dog therapists would advise against a sudden return to full weight bearing for your inactive dog. To start with the best type of exercise for arthritic joints is passive range of motion routines. The routine will gently stretch the joints which will stop tightening of the limbs and the development of scar tissue. When passive range of motion exercise is paired with massage therapy will stop muscle contracture and helps in the distribution of the needed nutrients to the joint cartilage. 

Dog Massage Therapy

Massage is another aspect of therapy that will help reduce arthritis pain and inflammation. The following are massage techniques you can apply on your dog:

• Effleurage

• Passive touch

• Kneading

• Stroking

What next?

Start using light weight-bearing exercises when your dog is able to walk again. Shallow pool workouts and underwater treadmill sessions are helpful in improving their disposition, strengthening their muscles and cardiovascular system, and reducing inflammation and pressure sores.

 

Simple treatment for dog arthritis consists of medications, supplements, exercises, and massage. It is also important to realize that treatment is a continuing process. And, it is important to start the treatment as soon as possible especially with dogs with spinal injuries or dogs having carts and slings. Continue reading to part 2 of the series.

Dog Physical Therapy 1 (PDF)