Peer-reviewed veterinary case report
Physical rehabilitation of the canine neurologic patient.
- Journal:
- The Veterinary clinics of North America. Small animal practice
- Year:
- 2010
- Authors:
- Drum, Marti G
- Affiliation:
- Department of Small Animal Clinical Sciences · United States
- Species:
- dog
Plain-English summary
Rehabilitation therapy is very important for dogs recovering from neurological diseases. Each dog needs a personalized plan that takes into account their specific condition, how much their owner can help, and the skills of the veterinary team. For dogs that can't walk, initial treatments might include exercises to help them stand, improve their range of motion, manage pain, and even some aquatic exercises. For dogs that can walk, they might use special equipment to help with balance and strength, and as they get better, more challenging activities like stair climbing and swimming can be introduced. While techniques like electrical stimulation and heat therapy can be helpful, they should complement, not replace, active exercise.
Abstract
Rehabilitation therapy is a key component of recovery from neurologic disease. Each patient requires a rehabilitation protocol designed specifically for the patient's neurologic condition, owner expectations and level of participation, and expertise of the veterinary team. Initial therapy for nonambualtory patients may include standing exercises, range of motion, pain control, toe pinch exercise, aquatic exercise, and basic nursing care. Sling assisted walking with foot protection, cavaletti rails, and physioroll balancing are used commonly for ambulatory patients. As recovery progresses, stair climbing, carrying or pulling weights, resistance band walking, swimming against resistance, and exercises specific to the home environment are added. Modalities such as electrical stimulation, ultrasound, cryotherapy, and heat therapy are useful adjuncts but do not take the place of active exercise.
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Search related cases →Original publication: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19942063/