H- wave is used to aid in the healing of muscles, nerves and tendons as well as in the reduction of pain and oedema by mimicking the Hoffman reflex which allows for deeper penetration of the treatment. It causes a contraction of the tissues flushing out areas of oedema and stimulating nerves just as TENs does to reduce pain.

Laser is most commonly used to reduce pain at trigger points by altering endogenous opioid production in the same way that morphine works to reduce pain, reducing the action potential in nerve fibres so that the pain signal is not transmitted and also reducing substance P production which leads to a reduction in pain, similar to TENs.

Cold therapy is used to reduce blood flow- vasoconstrict, therefore, is useful for reducing heat and swelling in an area this is often the case in acute injuries or post-surgery.

Heat therapy is used to relieve muscle spasm, tension and areas of pain similar to how we would use laser therapy but heat can also be used pre-exercise or competition as a warm-up.

Ultrasound (US) is most commonly used in cases of tendon and ligament injury as well as muscle strains and fibrotic myopathy. US is suited to treating these conditions as it enhances collagen production and alignment leading to enhanced healing.

NMES is used to reduce atrophy (decreased muscle), increase neurological signals- stimulating muscle movement, muscle strength, ROM and blood flow in conjunction with a remedial exercise program.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field Therapy (PEMF) is a form of magnetic therapy that generates a low-level electromagnetic field. This aids in re-establishing cellular voltage, as when cells are injured their cellular voltage is altered causing changes in cellular activity. This can lead to a build-up of toxins in the muscle tissues leading to pain and reduced function and length of the muscle.

TENS also known as transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation is used to reduce pain by stimulating the opioid mechanism in the same way as pain relief such as morphine but without the difficulty of getting your pet to take pills- we've all been there!

As we all know stretching is an important part of our warm-up and cool-down routines as humans to prevent muscle tension known as delayed onset muscle soreness or DOMS. However in dogs and horse's we use a slightly different protocol for stretching.

Often the signs of chronic pain can be overlooked as bad behaviour, old age or even personality traits. This is especially true for those of us who have older pets as we often blame our pets age for any changes in their behaviour or activity, however, this may not always be the case.

Pole work exercises can be used in both dogs and horse's to improve their core strength, muscle mass, joint range of motion and proprioception.

There are a number of different exercises used in dog rehabilitation and fitness programs. To know which ones best suit your dog and how to conduct them you should make an appointment to see your vet physio.

One of the most common things I hear from equestrians is ‘How do I increase my horse's (insert body area here)?’. And my answer is almost always hacking with different surfaces and hills. This type of work is a full body work out and can be done ridden or in hand so really is suitable for all horses. This type of work increases joint motion, muscle mass and strength, core strength and stride length. What doesn’t it do right?!

Ergh why is my horse lame?! It’s the age old question isn’t it. You know the saying “if you look at it long enough you’ll find a lameness” well it’s kinda the same with trying to find out why right?

Noticing a limb or lameness in our dogs can be a worrying time for us as owners. But firstly is your dog lame? How do you know and what should you look out for?

Veterinary Physiotherapy uses a combination of manual therapies including massage as well as electrotherapies and exercise therapies. This gives your pet a bespoke and comprehensive treatment for any underlying conditions as well as a great basis for a fitness and conditioning plan in fit pets.

Simply the use of vet/animal physiotherapy (manual, electro and exercise therapies) in animals primarily dogs and horses. Veterinary physiotherapy is a brilliant resource that all pet owners should be taking advantage of. All dogs and horse no matter what their age, lifestyle or health status should have regular vet physiotherapy assessment and treatment.