© Rachel Penny Physiotherapy 2009
Physiotherapy
Rachel utilises a mixture of manual and electrotherapy techniques.
Manual therapies consist of massage, stretching, trigger point therapy and range of movement exercises
Electrotherapies are used to back up manual techniques. Machines that Rachel may use include TENS, red light phototherapy and pulsed magnetic therapy.
Physioballs, wobble boards, thermal (heat) and cryotherapy (cold), home exercise
prescription, rehabilitation plans and other proprioception/ gait re-
Rachel also works closely with Uppertack Croft Hydrotherapy Centre.
What conditions benefit from physiotherapy?
There are a number of conditions that may benefit from physiotherapy.
Below are a few examples. If you are unsure if your pet would be suitable
for physiotherapy then talk to your vet or contact Rachel.
Orthopaedic (bone) conditions:
Arthritis
Pre and post orthopaedic surgery care (e.g. stifle surgery, amputation, hip surgery)
Hip and elbow dyslpasia
Fracture healing
Degenerative joint disease
Soft tissue conditions:
Tendon/ ligament damage
Muscle tears and bruising
Muscle wastage
Wound management
General muscular pain and inflammation
Neurological conditions:
Post operative rehabilitation (e.g. complicated fracture repair; laminectomy decompression)
Degenerative myelopathy (CDRM)
Central and peripheral nerve damage
Paresis and paralysis
General conditions:
General back and neck pain
Competition conditioning
Pain management
Obesity management
Sports/ working animal injuries
How do I book a physiotherapy session?
Rachel works under the Veterinary Surgeons Act 1966 which states that it is illegal for anyone to treat an animal without consent of the vet in charge of the case. Rachel will always speak to your vet before carrying out physiotherapy on your pet and will keep them updated on your pet’s progress.
There are two ways of getting a physiotherapy session booked
1. Contact Rachel directly. She will then contact your vet for consent and then get back to you to organise a time suitable for you and your pet
2. Ask your vet for a physiotherapy referral and give them Rachel’s details. Your vet will then fill out a referral form or give consent over then phone and a consultation can then be booked.
How many sessions will my pet need?
Every animal is different and sessions are individually tailored to meet your pet’s requirements.
Will my insurance cover physiotherapy?
Most insurance companies cover alternative treatments, such as physiotherapy. Please check with your insurance company to see if your policy will cover physiotherapy. Rachel is a member of The National Association of Veterinary Physiotherapists (NAVP), this association is recognised widely by pet insurance companies.
