26 November 2024 -
As veterinary nurses, you play a pivotal role in the healing journey of animals, often being the bridge between veterinary surgeons and pet owners. One area where your guidance can significantly impact is in promoting veterinary physiotherapy and rehabilitation. These treatments not only aid in faster recovery from surgery or injury but also enhance the quality of life for pets with chronic conditions like arthritis.
In this article, we’ll explore the benefits of veterinary physiotherapy and provide strategies for you to relay when helping owners commit to these routines at home. Don’t forget, you can enhance your animal physiotherapy skills using our vet nurse CPD.
Why does animal physiotherapy and rehabilitation matter?
Physiotherapy and rehabilitation can significantly improve the health, mobility, and comfort of pets, especially when recovering from surgery, trauma, or conditions like hip dysplasia or osteoarthritis. Here’s a refresh of why they are essential:
Enhanced mobility and pain relief
Targeted exercises can relieve stiffness, reduce pain, and improve joint mobility. Techniques such as massage, stretching, and low-impact exercises stimulate blood flow, reduce inflammation, and alleviate discomfort.
Improved muscle strength and balance
Physiotherapy helps strengthen weakened muscles and improve coordination. In cases of atrophy or muscle loss (which are common post-surgery or with prolonged inactivity), specific exercises rebuild strength, which supports recovery and prevents future injuries.
Reduced risk of secondary complications
Post-operative rehabilitation minimises the risk of complications like muscle contracture or joint stiffness, which are common when animals are immobilised for extended periods.
Helping owners understand the importance of veterinary physio and rehab
Owners may not initially understand how beneficial physiotherapy can be for their pets, so educating them on its advantages is crucial. But how do you make the case?
Break down the science
Explain how pet physiotherapy works in a way that resonates with owners. For instance, discuss how exercise and massages stimulate circulation and promote healing, just as they do for humans. Help them understand the science behind exercises and techniques, making the connection that these routines reduce pain, improve movement, and support long-term health.
Highlight the long-term benefits
Emphasise how veterinary physiotherapy can lead to reduced dependence on medications, fewer veterinary visits, and lower medical costs in the long run. Pets that engage in regular rehabilitation may have fewer secondary health issues, making the initial commitment well worth it.
Address owner concerns
Many owners worry about their ability to do exercises correctly or fear they might hurt their pet. Reassure them that you’ll provide hands-on demonstrations and detailed instructions, so they feel comfortable and confident.
Involve owners in the process
Letting owners participate in the in-practice sessions can help them see the immediate effects of these exercises and build their confidence. Once they witness their pet’s progress, they’re more likely to stay committed to the programme.
How you can encourage at-home veterinary physiotherapy
Getting owners to follow through with physiotherapy at home can be challenging. However, by giving clear guidance, offering resources and making exercises fun and rewarding, you can help owners commit to their pet’s rehabilitation, worry free.
Start simple: Begin with basic exercises that don’t require special equipment. Simple techniques, like passive range-of-motion exercises and gentle stretching, are often easier for owners to grasp and implement. As they build confidence, you can introduce more advanced exercises tailored to their pet’s needs.
Provide hands-on demonstrations: Show owners how to perform each exercise with their pet during practice visits. Allowing them to have a go under your supervision will help reinforce proper techniques and give them a chance to ask questions.
Create a customised home plan: Give owners a structured but manageable home care plan, including a list of exercises with clear instructions on timing, frequency, and duration. Visual aids, such as diagrams or short video clips, can really help to further enhance their understanding.
Set realistic goals: Work with owners to set short-term goals that are achievable and meaningful, such as increased mobility, reduced stiffness, or improved muscle tone. Progress, no matter how small, can be a powerful motivator!
Follow-up and support: Provide regular follow-ups to check on progress, either through in-practice appointments, phone calls, or video sessions. By maintaining a supportive presence, you can address any issues that arise and keep owners motivated.
Conclusion
As a vet nurse, your support can make a profound difference in the lives of pets undergoing physiotherapy. By educating owners on the benefits, demonstrating techniques, and providing the tools they need, you can empower them to take an active role in their pet’s recovery.
Why not try a veterinary physiotherapy course?
If physio and rehab is something you would like to get some more in-depth training on, why not invest in our ISVPS-accredited Nurse Certificate or Veterinary Paraprofessional Certificate in Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation? This face-to-face vet nurse CPD course starts on the 30th of January 2025 at our brand-new Clinical Excellence Centre in Swindon. Get in touch with our CPD Advisors through our website or email us for more information!
