Top Tip 4 - Physiotherapy - Making a Good Recovery a Great Recovery

It is commonly accepted that some form of rehabilitation is now a necessary part of recovery following orthopaedic or neurological injury, surgery or degenerative conditions. To lay some groundwork, here are some general tips on when it is best to start and the types of exercises appropriate for the typical cruciate ligament and patella luxation surgery.

In most instances, gentle rehabilitation exercises can commence the day after surgery. Even if the leg is bandaged, controlled exercise should still be started. Each patient should have an individualised exercise program.

Day 1 Post-op: Slow walking for toileting can commence plus/minus the support of a harness or towel under the abdomen depending on the type of procedure performed. This encourages gentle weight bearing and range of motion, assists in the reduction of oedema through muscle contraction, and helps prevent muscle atrophy. This can be completed several times per day. Icing the stifle joint for 10 minutes 3 times a day if the leg is not bandaged is very beneficial for reducing oedema, inflammation, swelling and pain.

Tip! Having a motion support harness for your clinic can be life (and back) saver when moving post-surgery patients. Please contact Dogs In Motion if you are interested in obtaining a harness or simply want some general advice on what type of harness(es) may be best for your clinic.

Day 2: Patients are often discharged on this day. Owners can be educated to continue icing for the first week 2-3 times per day, slow gentle walking for the toilet and avoidance of all jumping, running and stairs. Some passive range of motion exercises can be commenced. Dosage will depend on patient comfort and should be individualised.

Weeks 2-4: If the patient has muscle atrophy they need to start some gentle strengthening exercises. This will help to encourage limb use and muscle growth, make weight bearing and gait more symmetrical and reduce the load on the contralateral limb. Simply leaving the dog to heal of its own accord will not return the affected muscles to their pre-injury size. Hydrotherapy is a great way to reduce load and accelerate muscle growth. Walking in the water accelerates muscle growth over swimming. Gentle walking on leash may be appropriate for many patients.

Weeks 4-6: Walking, strengthening exercises and hydrotherapy are all progressed while jumping and running are still restricted. Progression will only occur if the animal is improving and the type of procedure performed allows for increases in weight bearing.

Week 6 onwards: Many small dogs will be able to return to trotting and some off leash exercise if they started early rehabilitation. Medium to large breed dogs and those with moderate atrophy may take much longer to progress back to normal.

Can they exercise at the beach?

Following any orthopaedic or neurological injury or surgery exercising on the sand at the beach can cause undue stress on the painful and healing structures. Walking on the sand should not commence for at least 6 weeks post surgery and 12 weeks is much safer. If swimming at the beach has been recommended for rehabilitation then the animal should be carried or supported when walking across the sand and out to the water.

Disclaimer for non-veterinarians: This information is of a general nature only and is intended to be used as part of overall case management for a condition diagnosed and managed by a qualified veterinarian. Always consult a qualified veterinarian for advice specific to your own pet.

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