Top Tip 11 - Getting more from a combined surgical and physiotherapy approach

If you’ve ever personally had a cruciate repair or knee reconstruction, you’ll know that recovery was far from over when you woke up from the anaesthetic…

Before referring for cruciate repair or other major orthopaedic surgery, it is comforting to know that your client will be able to meet all clinicians involved before their pet is sent home post surgery. This importantly includes the physiotherapy team as well as the surgery team. After all, a typical cruciate surgery rehabilitation program will include several hours with a physiotherapist – many more than are spent with the surgeon!

Many clients presenting for surgical repair take the opportunity to meet with physiotherapist Michelle Monk during the initial visit. These clients go home with a far better idea of is involved in rehabilitation than if they had not had the chance to have a quick friendly chat.

This simple activity adds huge value and physiotherapist Michelle Monk is happy to chat to clients either over the phone or informally in person prior to her first consultation post surgery. For regional clients Michelle is also most happy to keep in touch over the phone in the days and weeks post surgery.

This team approach results in better outcomes through faster recovery, less post-surgical complications and a higher level of satisfaction for all involved.

If you have a surgical case which is more appropriate for surgical repair in your own clinic but which would still benefit from rehabilitation, Michelle is most happy to chat to either you or your client prior to surgery. This helps to ensure that everyone is on the same page with current best practice rehabilitation techniques and what will ultimately be involved post surgery if physiotherapy is pursued.

If you would like to learn more about our combined approach to surgery and rehabilitation, please feel free to call either residency trained small animal surgeon Melati Laksito or physiotherapist Michelle Monk on (03) 9532 5261.

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