Info For Vets
Physiotherapy promotes quality of movement and healing of tissues. It is a science based profession that uses scientific research as part of assessment and treatment strategies. Click for Scientific References.
ACPAT Veterinary Physiotherapists are professional clinicians with a depth of core knowledge that includes anatomy and physiology, joint mechanics, functional biomechanics, disease pathophysiology and tissue healing. We are experts in physical rehabilitation after injury and operations. We provide assessment and treatment for animals post-op, pre-op, post injury, neuro issues and for conservative management of many conditions. more info on Physio Expertise
To refer:
Either use the Online Veterinary Referral
or download the Word document Vet Referral Form
Or print Referral form in PDF
Once we have received the referral form we will contact the client to discuss physio and to book an appointment to see them usually within 7 to 10 days. Once one of us has seen the client you will be emailed a report about the physio assessment and treatment. Thereafter you will be kept informed of progress and be assured that if we think the animal requires further veterinary input then we will not hesitate to let you know.
Please note that none of the client information you place on the referral form will be used for marketing purposes nor shared to any other person or organisation.
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When to refer
Early in the Healing process because it is easier to prevent movement issues and to promote quality healing than it is to try to undo compromised tissues and movement strategies.
We usually see a client within 7 to 10 days of a referral unless you request another time frame. Ortho and Neuro post ops are best referred on the day of operation so we can contact client for an appointment in 7-10 days. Pre op physio is also recommended. You can refer without a named diagnosis for example a recent or low grade lameness or muscle soreness on palpation including spinal.
We are professional clinicians who work alongside the vets providing regular updates and discuss the next stages of rehabilitation. We will not hesitate to tell you if we think client needs to see you. for more detailed information on when and how to refer click here. To refer a client click here
Expertise
A Chartered Physiotherapist & ACPAT Veterinary physiotherapist will study for at least 6 years to qualify. Starting with a three to four year degree to become a human physiotherapist and then work in the human orthopaedic and neurological field before undergoing further masters level training with animals for two years. We are registered with the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT).
This initial human training not only developed our physiotherapy hands on skills but also helped to refine skills and develop an eye for subtle movement dysfunction. more info
CCL operation post op physio
Physiotherapy directly after a CCL operation is important to prevent movement disorders, promote healing and owner compliance. Strengthening is important but before strengthening, quality of use, correct loading for stage of healing and optimal biomechanics as well as proprioception enhancement is vital. Refer on day of op and physio will see within 10 days. For more detail on what physio rehab involves post ccl repair download this review. Physiotherapy post CCL repair
