Rehabilitating Pets With Orthopedic Conditions

Orthopaedic conditions in pets can cause pain, limit mobility and affect overall quality of life. While surgery or medication may address the immediate issue, true recovery goes beyond just rest.

Rehabilitation therapy helps pets rebuild strength, improve movement and manage pain more effectively. From physiotherapy to hydrotherapy, these treatments support faster healing and help pets stay active, comfortable and confident during recovery and beyond.

Orthopedic Conditions in Pets

Orthopaedic conditions in pets refer to injuries or diseases that affect the bones, joints, ligaments and muscles. These issues are especially common in active dogs, ageing pets or certain breeds that are genetically predisposed. While some conditions result from trauma (like fractures), others develop over time due to genetics, wear and tear, or inflammation.

Some of the most frequently diagnosed orthopaedic conditions include:

• Cruciate Ligament Tears: One of the most common knee injuries in dogs, involving partial or full tearing of the cruciate ligament. This condition causes limping, pain and instability.
• Hip and Elbow Dysplasia: Developmental abnormalities of the joints, especially common in large breeds. These conditions often lead to arthritis and mobility issues.
• Patellar Luxation: A condition where the kneecap dislocates from its normal position, more often seen in small dog breeds.
• Fractures and Bone Injuries: Resulting from trauma, these require surgical repair and careful rehabilitation to ensure proper healing.
• Spinal Conditions: Such as intervertebral disc disease (IVDD), vertebral instability, or Wobbler syndrome, which affect nerve function and can cause paralysis or coordination issues.

When Does Your Pet Need Orthopedic Rehab?

Orthopaedic rehabilitation can help pets recover from injuries, surgeries or manage chronic musculoskeletal conditions. Knowing when to seek rehab support is key to preventing further damage and promoting a better quality of life.

Here are common signs your pet may benefit from orthopaedic rehabilitation:

• Limping or favouring one limb when walking
• Difficulty standing up from a lying or sitting position
• Stiffness, especially after resting or first thing in the morning
• Swelling or inflammation around joints or limbs
• Reluctance to climb stairs, jump onto furniture or play
• Whining, whimpering or flinching when touched or moved
• Decreased activity or avoidance of usual physical routines
• Increased irritability, anxiety or withdrawal
• Changes in posture or gait (e.g. arched back, toe dragging)

Beyond these symptoms, pets can also benefit from rehabilitation to accelerate recovery after orthopaedic procedures such as cruciate ligament or fracture repair.

If your pet shows any of these signs, visit a rehab vet clinic. A personalised rehab plan can make a big difference in your pet’s recovery and mobility.

Managing Orthopedic Conditions in Pets

Whether your pet is showing early signs of joint pain or recovering from an injury, prompt and proper management is essential. Addressing these issues early helps prevent further damage and supports a smoother, more effective recovery.

A veterinarian can provide a clear diagnosis and recommend a treatment plan tailored to your pet’s unique needs and condition severity. This typically begins with a thorough physical examination and may include diagnostic imaging such as X-rays or CT scans to assess the severity and location of the condition.

Based on the diagnosis, your vet may prescribe medications to manage pain, control inflammation and support joint health. However, in most cases, physiotherapy (physical therapy) will be recommended to aid in recovery and prevent further injury.

Orthopedic Physiotherapy for Pets

Orthopaedic physiotherapy (physical therapy) offers non-invasive treatments that help pets recover from injuries, manage chronic conditions and regain mobility. These therapies are tailored to your pet’s specific needs, aiming to reduce pain, improve joint function and enhance overall quality of life.

Orthopaedic rehab for pets may include various treatment modalities, such as:

1. Manual Therapy and Massage
Manual techniques—such as joint mobilisations, soft tissue manipulation and targeted massage—are used to relieve muscle tension, improve blood flow and reduce discomfort. Massage therapy can also decrease anxiety, support lymphatic drainage and help pets with arthritis, post-surgical soreness or soft tissue injuries to heal more comfortably.

2. Hydrotherapy (Underwater Treadmill or Pool)
Hydrotherapy allows pets to exercise in a controlled aquatic environment. The buoyancy of water reduces pressure on joints, while the resistance helps strengthen muscles and improve range of motion. Underwater treadmills are especially useful for dogs recovering from orthopaedic surgery, arthritis, or spinal conditions.

3. Laser Therapy (Cold Laser)
Cold laser therapy uses low-level light energy to stimulate cell regeneration and reduce inflammation. It is effective for:

• Arthritis symptoms
• Muscle and joint pain
• Wound healing and post-surgical recovery

Many pets show improved comfort and function after just a few sessions of laser therapy.

4. Cold and Heat Therapy
Alternating cold and heat applications helps manage inflammation and pain. Cold therapy is ideal for acute injuries and swelling, while heat promotes circulation and relaxes tight muscles. This technique is often combined with other therapies for enhanced results.

5. Electrical Nerve Stimulation Therapy
This non-invasive treatment uses gentle electrical currents to relieve pain and reduce inflammation in affected areas. It can improve range of motion, prevent muscle atrophy and is often used alongside other pain management techniques for enhanced results.

Recovery After Orthopedic Surgery in Pets

For more severe orthopedic conditions or cases where conservative management proves ineffective, surgical intervention may be necessary. Surgical options vary depending on the diagnosis and may include:

• Ligament or tendon repair
• Joint stabilisation procedures
• Fracture fixation
• Joint replacements in advanced cases of dysplasia or osteoarthritis

Rehabilitation is essential to help manage pain, restore mobility and support a full, safe recovery following surgery. A structured rehab plan can significantly improve outcomes and prevent long-term complications.

Some effective post-surgical exercises include:

• Range of Motion Exercises: Carefully moving your pet’s joints through their natural motion helps maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness. Always monitor for signs of discomfort during exercise.
• Assisted Standing and Walking: With support, help your pet stand and take small, deliberate steps. This builds strength, encourages weight-bearing and improves coordination.
• Balance and Stability Exercises: Using tools like balance discs or wobble cushions, these exercises strengthen core muscles and enhance overall stability.
• Swimming or Hydrotherapy: Water-based activities offer low-impact resistance, promoting muscle development and endurance without stressing healing joints.
• Slow, Controlled Leash Walks: Short walks on flat surfaces help restore natural gait patterns, encourage weight distribution, and improve joint function over time.

Before beginning any exercise programme, it is essential to consult with your veterinarian or a certified animal rehabilitation therapist. Each pet heals differently, and a customised rehab plan ensures your pet’s safety and success.

Our clinic offers tailored rehab services for dogs and cats, helping them to smoothly recover from their orthopaedic conditions. Contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Frequently Asked Questions