Pre and Post Op

It is really important to strengthen a patients muscles before any operation as due to limited mobility they will quickly show signs of muscle atrophy and post operative the patient will be on cage rest and limited lead walks and therefore it only takes 3 days to lose muscle mass. We would use the treadmill as part of the pre or post operative treatment because:

• The buoyancy of the water supports the joints
• It provides maximum flexion and extension of the limbs
• Quickly increases muscle mass
• Re educates the gait pattern following the muscle atrophy in the fore or hind limbs
• Provides an earlier return to activity
• Very easy to observe the range of movement (ROM) through the glass sides
• The dog is unable to cheat unlike in the pool where they have a tendency to tuck their hind legs up making it difficult to get a good rom

The key objective is to increase the muscle mass as quickly as possible to enable the dog to return to its normal walks as soon as possible.

If you believe your dog is in need of Hydrotherapy, or your Vet has recommended treatment, first thing you need to do is call us on 01635 521915 or send us an email at info@ActNow-Newbury.co.uk