Physiotherapy of seniors

The development in veterinary medicine is resulting in to prolonged life span of animals. There is growing demand also on physiotherapy services to improve the quality of life of geriatric patients. The optimal rehabilitation of the elderly patients lies within understanding of the primary disease(s) and possible secondary complications, weight control, osteoarthritis and pain management as well as the understanding how to make changes in the in the environment of the animal to make its mobility as easy as possible. Regular health checks are required because the clinical status of a senior patient can change rapidly.

Physiotherapy benefits for elderly patients are in maintaining and improving joint motion, preventing muscle atrophy, maintaining physical condition and strength and managing pain. Hydrotherapy is a gentle exercise method for the senior patients because of the decreased stress on the joints. Still, hydrotherapy might be stressful for seniors and we recommend a health check before introducing the patient to hydrotherapy.

The underwater treadmill is a safe way to exercise senior dogs.

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