Page 588 - The Veterinary Care of the Horse

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VetBooks.ir THERAPIES

PHYSIOTHERAPY

The purpose of physiotherapy is to assist the natural healing of the tissues following an
injury. It helps to restore normal function to the injured part of the body and provides relief
from pain. Physiotherapy also has an important role in rehabilitation. Specific exercises and

techniques are used to optimize tissue repair and build up strength and mobility.

Who performs physiotherapy?

Physiotherapy should only be undertaken by a chartered physiotherapist, or veterinary
physiotherapist who is a member of the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in

Animal Therapy (ACPAT). A chartered physiotherapist has extensive training in human
physiotherapy and the letters MCSP after their name. A veterinary physiotherapist has an
additional Post Graduate Diploma/Master of Science degree in Veterinary Physiotherapy.

Physiotherapy may be carried out with permission from the treating vet, once a diagnosis

has been made. In order to select the most appropriate treatment, the physiotherapist will take
a detailed history and examine the horse thoroughly. This involves a comprehensive
assessment of the whole horse, not just the injured part.

What conditions are likely to respond to physiotherapy?

• Soft tissue injuries, e.g. muscles, tendons, ligaments, joints.

• Back pain.
• Neck problems.

• Muscle tension.

• Muscle wasting.

• Nerve injury.

• Wounds that are slow to heal.
• Poor performance.