Acupuncture is the insertion of fine needles into specific points on a patient to produce a physiologic response. Stimulation of these points can lead to increase in circulation, decrease in muscle spasm and modulation of pain. Acupuncture can treat both musculoskeletal and neurologic issues and is often used in conjunction with other therapies. Studies have shown that some of the physiological effects of acupuncture are pain relief, anti-inflammatory effects, anti-febrile effects, immune regulation and the promotion of tissue healing.

Custom fitted splints, braces, and carts/wheelchairs are used to support an injured limb while it heals, to correct a deformity or to encourage correct limb use. Carts are fitted to patients that are paralyzed or unable to walk without support.

Water is a fabulous environment in which to exercise. The buoyancy and resistance of the water make an underwater treadmill a unique and safe method of rehabilitation allowing the strengthening of muscles and increasing flexibility while creating little pressure on the joints. The use of warm water helps to increase flexibility and mobility of muscles, tendons, and ligaments that surround the joints as well as enhance circulation. It is quite common for an animal that is not using a limb on land to use it when walking in water. They often use the limb in an exaggerated motion which adds to the therapeutic benefits of hydrotherapy. We can adjust variables of speed, duration of treatment and water level to maximize our rehabilitation plan.

Therapeutic laser, also known as photobiomodulation (PBM) uses infrared light energy to stimulate tissue repair and provide pain management in a non-invasive, painless way and does not require sedation or anesthesia. We use a Class IV laser to deliver the therapy. PBM has been shown to decrease inflammation and pain while speeding soft tissue healing.

Manual therapy can include a variety of techniques, including passive range of motion (PROM), joint mobilization and chiropractic. Manual therapies can be of great benefit to joints, allowing for greater movement and can also provide significant pain relief.

NMES sends electrical impulses to nerves, causing muscles to contract. It can be used to prevent muscle atrophy, offsetting the effects of disuse that may occur after surgery or injury. TENS decreases pain and inflammation by providing a low level electrical current which disrupts the normal pain perception pathways.

Thermotherapy is the use of ice or heat to affect tissues. This therapy can be used during a rehab session and we may also have clients perform them at home at prescribed intervals. Use of cryo- or cold therapy can decrease inflammation and reduce pain. Heat can be applied to increase blood flow and aid in muscle relaxation.

PEMF therapy uses pulsing electromagnetic fields to speed healing, reduce inflammation and provide pain relief. PEMF therapy utilizes external electromagnetic waveforms to induce a current in the tissues to up-regulate the body’s production of Nitric Oxide and stimulates the natural anti-inflammatory and healing actions in both soft tissues and bone. We are able to incorporate this treatment both at the clinic and in the patentee’s home.

ESWT is the application of short, intense sound waves to a specific site to stimulate healing. It is used for the treatment of arthritis, tendon injuries, ligament damage, scar tissue, non-healing fractures or wounds and other musculoskeletal injuries.

Therapeutic exercises can improve strength, flexibility, balance and coordination and can slow progression of disease. We evaluate each patient and design a set of exercises most effective for that pet. Exercises may be directed at helping the patient with strengthening specific muscles or stretching to increase flexibility or learning how to regain the feeling and use of a foot or limb. We demonstrate each exercise in our clinic and teach clients to perform these at home on a prescribed schedule. Our rehabilitation practitioner will also send an online link to the exercise program.

Ultrasound is the use of sound waves to create heating (thermal effects) and vibration (non-thermal effects). Therapeutic ultrasound breaks down scar tissue, increases muscle elasticity, improves circulation and reduces pain. It is commonly used for muscle and tendon injuries, fractures and areas of restricted range of motion.