Physical Rehabilitation
What do you do at the physical rehabilitation center?
We provide the same type of care for pets that a physical therapist would offer to human patients.
What conditions are commonly treated at the physical rehabilitation center?
We help patients with arthritis, cruciate ligament injury, intervertebral disk disease, degenerative myelopathy, and obesity to name a few.
Can I visit the physical rehabilitation center?
Yes, come in any time during regular business hours and a member of our staff would be happy to give you a tour.
What are signs of arthritis in dogs and cats?
The following are some common indicators that a pet has arthritis, but signs are not limited to those on this list.
Limping
Difficulty climbing stairs
Difficulty jumping onto furniture
Difficulty climbing in or out of the car
Slow to rise from a sitting or lying position
Difficulty posturing to eliminate
Stiffness upon waking that "works its way out" after getting up and moving around
Any of the above symptoms being more pronounced on cold or wet days
What do I bring to my pet's first rehab appointment?
Please bring the veterinary referral form, new client information page, functional questionnaire, previous medical records, and x-rays. The various forms can be downloaded on the forms page of the website. You can even FAX the forms to us before your appointment at 918-664-8867. We do have toys and treats in the rehab center, but if you feel what you have may be better accepted by your pet, feel free to bring what motivates him or her! If you are scheduled for an underwater treadmill session, you may want to bring a towel to protect the seat of your car on the way home.
How does acupuncture work?
There are multiple ways in which acupuncture works. Acupuncture points are placed in positions where they exert influence over the vascular (blood) system, lymphatic system, and the nervous system. Insertion of needles stimulates the brain to release endorphins, a body chemical that relieves pain. The response can be at the actual point, or at a site distant to the point. Acupuncture can also stimulate the release of hormones. It is documented that acupuncture can mediate the release of neurotransmitters and neurohormones that can change the regulation of blood flow. It has been shown to enhance immune function by increasing numbers of the body's defense cells. For more on this therapy, see our acupuncture information page on the physical rehabilitation drop-down menu.
How does pulsed magnetic field therapy work and what is it used for?
This is the application of a magnetic field to tissues to influence ion interaction and thereby improve cell nutrition and circulation. It enhances cartilage repair, and so it is good for arthritis and hip dysplasia. It aids in healing and can be used for fractured bones, burns, wounds, post operative healing, infection, and inflammation. It is beneficial for degenerative diseases of the musculoskeletal system, and is also indicated for pain and muscle spasm. At the rehabilitation center, patients spend 30 minute sessions on our pulsed magnetic field bed.
How does the low level laser work and what is it used for?
This therapy is also called "cold laser" or "therapeutic laser." It is the use of light to treat tissues, having an effect at the cellular level. It improves healing through: acceleration of collagen synthesis, cartilage stimulation, immune cell enhancement, increased vascularity to healing tissue, increased fibroblast production, and more. Laser therapy decreases micro-organisms and is therefore beneficial in treating localized infection. It also reduces pain through endorphin release and can be used to stimulate acupuncture points.
What are the indications for the underwater treadmill?
The underwater treadmill can be used for general conditioning, weight loss, trunk and postural training, arthritis or injury (being in the water reduces weight bearing stressors), and neurological conditions affecting ambulation.
My dog doesn't like baths or swimming. Will he/she do okay in the underwater treadmill?
Most do, even those who "hate the water." It is completely different from anything they have ever experienced, and they are usually too busy to get anxious. We do what we can to provide additional encouragement, from acting as cheerleader to giving treats.
Do you get in the underwater treadmill with the dog?
If the pet has a health condition that requires assistance or requires extra coaxing, then a member of our staff will get in the treadmill. We also have doggie life vests and swim diapers for individuals that need them. |
