Physiotherapy for dogs and horses (animal physiotherapy) is a healing method in which external measures are applied using the therapist's manual skills to treat complaints and functional disorders of the musculoskeletal system. Physiotherapy uses various physical stimuli such as heat, cold, pressure, electricity or radiation. The focus of this therapy is on restoring or preventing disorders of the muscles, joints and skeletal system. Physiotherapy is often used as a complementary measure to veterinary treatment after surgery or injuries, but also for chronic or degenerative diseases.
It is a sensible alternative or supplement to surgical or drug treatment.
The main objectives of physiotherapy are:
- Restoring and maintaining movement
- Relieving pain
- Increasing endurance and strength
- Training coordination and mobility
