Physiotherapy
Just like with people, good treatment consists of different parts. Each dog is approached individually on the basis of an anamnesis during the first appointment, a clinical examination to view the problem and to sense possible limitations and finally the preparation of an adapted treatment plan. This treatment plan can be adjusted during the course of the sessions.
The 'goal' of the therapy is often discussed with the owners. This may differ for athletic, working or show dogs than for a pet dog in the family. The importance of practicing at home is also emphasized to ensure smooth rehabilitation.
Massage & stretching
These techniques are used to reassure the dog, to treat muscle tension and spasms and to promote blood circulation. This is also taught to owners during the first sessions so that they can apply it at home. This way the dog can also receive sufficient guidance after and between the sessions. This automatically ensures a faster recovery. In addition, hands-on therapies such as massage and stretching not only strengthen the therapeutic effect on the muscles, but also ensure better communication and relationships between humans and animals.
Shortened and stiffened muscles are often a secondary adverse effect of prolonged rest or compensation due to pain. Through stretching it is possible to return the muscles to their healthy length. This is necessary to allow the dog to move pain-free and normally.
Exercise therapy
One of the most important parts of the treatment is exercise therapy. Every body, both human and dog, is made to move. It is therefore only normal that exercise is a large part of most treatments. We use exercise equipment from the FitPAWS® brand that has been specifically developed for dog rehabilitation to exercise the stability and coordination of certain muscle groups. Combining exercises that promote stability, flexibility, strength and range of motion produces the best results.
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Here too, exercises will be shown on a regular basis that the owner can practice with the dog at home. Often you don't need specialized equipment for this, but everyday things can be used to achieve the same effect. The therapist will help to give ideas about what you can do at home and explain why this is important.
Ultrasound and TENS
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TENS
This stands for Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation. This device stimulates the sensory nerves in the skin by means of small electrical stimuli. These stimuli usually provide pain relief or in some neurological cases they are also used to 'activate' the nerves.
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Ultrasound
Ultrasound therapy is ideal for treating injuries in connective tissue, ligaments, tendons, joint capsules, scar tissue and bone tissue. The vibrations of the ultrasonic waves ensure better 'alignment' of the underlying structures.