Common Dog Injuries That Physiotherapy Can Help Treat
As a dog physiotherapist, I see a wide range of injuries that can impact our canine companions. Whether your dog is an active athlete, a working dog, or simply enjoys daily walks, injuries can occur due to accidents, ageing, or underlying health conditions. Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in aiding recovery, managing pain, and improving mobility. Below are some of the most common dog injuries that physiotherapy can help treat.
Cruciate Ligament Injuries
One of the most frequent injuries in dogs is a cruciate ligament rupture or strain in the hind limb knee joint. The cranial cruciate ligament (CCL) in dogs is equivalent to the ACL in humans. A tear or rupture can cause lameness, pain and instability in the hind leg.
How Physiotherapy helps
- Strengthening the surrounding muscles to compensate for instability
- Water treadmill/hydrotherapy to improve muscle tone without excessive joint strain
- Range of motion exercises to maintain flexibility and prevent stiffness
- Post surgical rehabilitation to facilitate faster recovery
Hip Dysplasia
Hip dysplasia is a common condition that affects the hip joint, leading to arthritis and pain as the dog ages. While surgery may be necessary in severe cases, physiotherapy is an excellent conservative treatment to manage symptoms and improve quality of life.
How Physiotherapy helps:
- Weight management to reduce joint stress
- Controlled exercises to strengthen hip supporting muscles
- Massage therapy to relieve pain and stiffness
- Laser therapy or ultrasound for pain relief and inflammation reduction
Intervertebral Disc Disease (IVDD)
IVDD is a spinal condition where the cushioning discs between vertebrae degenerate, causing pain, nerve damage, or even paralysis. Breeds such as Daschunds, French Bulldogs, and Beagles are particularly prone to this condition.
How Physiotherapy Helps:
- Gentle stretching and strengthening exercises to support the spine
- Water treadmill/hydrotherapy to build muscle strength with minimal spinal strain
- Neuromuscular reeducation techniques to improve nerve function post-surgery
- Pain management through therapeutic ultrasound and electrotherapy
Patellar Luxation
This condition occurs when the kneecap (patella) moves out of its normal position, leading to lameness and discomfort. Small breeds, such as Chihuahuas and Yorkshire Terriers, are more susceptible to patellar luxation.
How Physiotherapy Helps:
- Strengthening the hindlimb muscles to stabilise the patella
- Balance and coordination exercises to improve joint alignment
- Joint mobilisation to enhance movement and reduce stiffness
- Post operative rehabilitation to restore mobility and function
Soft Tissue Injuries (Sprains and Strains)
Muscle, ligament, and tendon injuries are common in dogs that engage in high impact activities such as agility, flyball and herding, but can affect all dogs. These injuries can range from mild strains to severe tears requiring long term rehabilitation.
How Physiotherapy helps:
- Ice and heat therapy to manage inflammation and pain.
- Massage therapy to break down scar tissue and improve circulation
- Controlled exercise programs to gradually rebuild strength and flexibility
- Taping and bracing techniques for additional support during recovery
Arthritis and Degenerative Joint Disease
As dogs age, joint cartilage deteriorates, leading to stiffness, pain and reduced mobility. While arthritis cannot be cured, physiotherapy can help manage symptoms and improve overall function.
How Physiotherapy helps:
- Low impact exercises to maintain movement without worsening joint damage
- Hydrotherapy to strengthen muscles and improve circulation
- Joint mobilisation and massage to reduce stiffness
- Electrotherapy for pain relief and inflammation control
Elbow Dysplasia
Elbow dysplasia is a developmental disorder that affects the elbow joint, typically resulting in lameness, pain, and arthritis over time. It is a common condition, especially in larger breeds such as Labrador Retrievers, Golden Retrievers, and German Shepherds. Elbow dysplasia occurs when the structures of the elbow joint do not develop correctly, leading to abnormal movement, cartilage wear, and eventual joint degeneration.
How Physiotherapy Helps:
- Strengthening the supporting muscles to reduce stress on the elbow joint and improve stability
- Range of motion exercises to maintain joint flexibility and prevent further stiffness
- Weight management programs to reduce pressure on the joint
- Water treadmill/hydrotherapy to build strength and improve mobility with minimal stress on the joint
- Laser therapy and ultrasound for pain relief and inflammation reduction
- Joint mobilisation techniques to encourage normal movement and prevent further damage
Physiotherapy plays a critical role in managing elbow dysplasia symptoms and preventing long-term joint damage. By incorporating controlled exercises and therapeutic modalities, we can help your dog maintain a good quality of life while managing this progressive condition.
Neurological Conditions (Stroke, Nerve Damage, Wobbler Syndrome)
Dogs suffering from neurological disorders often have trouble walking, lose coordination, and develop muscle atrophy. Physiotherapy plays a key role in helping them regain function and independence.
How Physiotherapy helps:
- Gait training to restore normal movement patterns
- Proprioceptive exercises to improve balance and coordination
- Electrical stimulation to prevent muscle atrophy
- Assisted walking techniques, including harness support and treadmill therapy
Fracture Rehabilitation
Following a broken bone, dogs often experience stiffness, muscle loss, and reduced range of motion due to immobilisation during the healing process.
How Physiotherapy helps:
- Gradual reintroduction of weight bearing exercises
- Muscle building programs to restore strength
- Range of motion exercises to regain joint flexibility
- Water treadmill/hydrotherapy to aid in a safe, controlled recovery process
Post Surgical Rehabilitation
Many orthopedic surgeries, such as those for torn ligaments, hip replacements, or spinal repairs, require extensive post operative care. Physiotherapy ensures a safe and effective recovery process
How Physiotherapy helps:
- Customised rehabilitation programs tailored to surgical recovery timelines
- Therapeutic modalities like ultrasound and laser therapy to accelerate healing
- Progressive weight bearing exercises to restore full function
- Pain management strategies to reduce discomfort during recovery
Final Thoughts
Physiotherapy is an invaluable tool in managing and treating a wide range of dog injuries. Whether your pet is recovering from surgery, dealing with a chronic condition, or experiencing an acute injury, physiotherapy can significantly improve their quality of life.
If your dog is showing signs of pain, limping, stiffness, or reluctance to move, consulting with a canine physiotherapist can provide tailored treatments to aid their recovery. With the right approach, your furry friend can regain strength, mobility, and enjoy a happy, active life once again.
At WitsEnd, all our physiotherapy is carried out by Dr Shahad Mohammed who has over 20 year’s experience in administering canine physiotherapy and hydrotherapy. Shahad is a member of NAVP, AHPR, and RAMP and he carries full professional insurance.