Overview
Example case:
Willow’s short term recovery program aims to help build and tone hind limb muscles, with the goal of having both hind legs function as they did prior to surgery.Â
Mental stimulation is also vital for Willow to make up for the lack of physical activity & play. A healthy, strong leg will aid in Willow’s recovery for her upcoming 2nd ACL surgery.Â
N.B. This treatment plan is a guide only and may be altered as the treatment progresses. Speed of progression through each stage is different for every furry friend!
What to expect
- The initial appointment will discuss goals for your dog and plan how we will achieve this together
- Hydrotherapy Underwater Treadmill Sessions minimum 1x per week for 8x weeks. Sessions will vary in timing depending on dog’s ability
- Ideally 2+ times per week to fast-track progress and rebuild atrophied muscle and reduce compensatory impact on dog’s other legs
- Soft Tissue massage to aid in pain and tightness as a result of compensatory and incorrect body use
- At-home Ice therapy to aid in swelling
- At-home exercise program to help fast-track progress. This will be adjusted weekly depending on dog’s progress
How long is each program?
- Recovery will vary with each dog, depending on various factors.
- At the best chance of recovery, hydrotherapy underwater treadmill sessions are recommend to continue weekly for a minimum of 8x weeks, with reassessment on conclusion of the 8-week period
When to begin?
- (optional) Pre-habilitation before surgery to build muscle in a weightless, low-impact environment
- Approximately 2 Weeks post-surgery
- Soft tissue massage and passive ROM exercises may begin sooner depending on pain level of your dog
- Underwater treadmill sessions should begin as soon as possible once the wound site has healed.Â
- Underwater treadmill is a highly supported and low impact exercise which is why it is suitable to begin at this early stage