FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What is rehab all about?
Physical rehab is primarily the use of techniques from human physical therapy which have been adapted for animals. The purpose is to improve strength, flexibility, and comfort in order to help the patients maintain or return to normal activity.
Does my pet need rehab (indications for rehab)?
Listed below are some the most common indications for rehab. If you have any question as to whether your family member pet would benefit from some type of rehab please call our office at 758-4509.
- Lameness or gait abnormalities
- Post-operative surgery recovery
- Arthritis
- K9 athletes with performance abnormalities
- Hip dysplasia
- Neck or back pain
- Intervertebral disc disease
- Degenerative myelopathy
- Tendonitis, sprains or strains
- Obesity
- Paralysis
- Birth defects
How do I get started?
Please call the office and our Patient Care Coordinators can assist you in setting up an appointment time. Dr. Moore sees new cases and rechecks on Monday mornings. Please allow 2 hours for the first appointment and 45 minutes for follow up appointments. For first time visits, please go to the following link and fill out the rehab history form. Please bring this form with you to the first appointment or email it to us ahead of time.
What will happen during the exam?
To develop a rehabilitation plan, each patient is thoroughly evaluated during an in-depth examination. The exam consists of a routine health check, gait analysis, neurological exam, musculoskeletal exam (specifically muscles, ligaments, tendons, and joints), and goniometry (measurement of joint flexion and extension). The exam findings, combined with a detailed history, lead to a diagnosis and appropriate treatment plan. All successful rehabilitation plans rely on dedicated owners teaming with our skilled staff. Treatments may include manual therapy techniques such as mobilization, massage, and range of motion exercises; specialized modalities like therapeutic ultrasound, electrical stimulation, and hydrotherapy; as well as specific medications and supplements to alleviate pain and optimize healing and mobility. Many pets are very relaxed or actually sleep during the exam. Families stay with their pets during the exams.
How will I remember everything you tell me about my pet’s rehab?
A detailed written plan goes home with every pet. The plan includes recommendations for further diagnostics, in-clinic treatments, medications, and supplements. A home rehab program is included with detailed instructions on how to perform the recommended massage, stretching, passive range of motion, and therapeutic exercises. (We will demonstrate all the recommended home exercises in-clinic, but we have found it is nice to have a reference at home as well.)
Can I afford rehab?
Our goal is to provide every pet and owner with the best plan to fit their needs. As there are many things that owners can do at home, rehab is very affordable. We will provide written health care plans including costs for all recommended in-clinic treatments, supplements, diagnostics, and medications. Please contact our office for an estimate for the initial visit.
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