Animal physiotherapy applies the same evidence-based principles used in human physiotherapy to the care of animals. It uses hands-on techniques, targeted exercise and movement re-education to relieve pain, restore mobility and help animals recover from injury, surgery or the demands of competition. In this guide we explain what animal physiotherapy is, what an animal physiotherapist does, and which animals can benefit.
What is animal physiotherapy?
Animal physiotherapy - sometimes called veterinary physiotherapy - is the assessment and treatment of musculoskeletal, neurological and soft-tissue problems in animals. A qualified animal physiotherapist works alongside your vet to support recovery and improve comfort, mobility and performance, whether that animal is a family pet or a competing athlete. Treatment is always tailored to the individual animal and the underlying condition.
What does an animal physiotherapist do?
As with physiotherapy for people, treatment begins with a thorough assessment of posture, movement and the affected area. From there, an animal physiotherapist may use:
- Hands-on therapy - soft-tissue release, joint mobilisation and massage to ease pain and tension.
- Movement and exercise - controlled exercises, pole work and movement re-education to rebuild strength, balance and coordination.
- Education and management advice - guidance on workload, surfaces, warm-up and recovery to help prevent the problem returning.
The goal is the same as in human physiotherapy: address the root cause, support the body's natural healing, and set a realistic plan for recovery.
Which animals can benefit?
Horses and dogs are the most commonly treated, but many animals can benefit from physiotherapy. Performance and pleasure horses - across eventing, dressage, jumping and pony club - often see a physiotherapist to maintain soundness, support recovery and optimise performance. Dogs and other small animals are frequently referred after injury or surgery, or to manage age-related stiffness and arthritis.
Common reasons animals are referred
An animal might be referred for physiotherapy to help with:
- Recovery from injury or surgery
- Arthritis, stiffness and reduced mobility
- Performance and movement problems in sport horses
- Rehabilitation and return-to-work programs
- Pre- and post-event care
In many cases physiotherapy works best as part of a team approach, alongside your vet and other professionals.
What to expect from a session
Animal physiotherapy is gentle, low-stress and tailored to keep the animal calm and comfortable. Your physiotherapist will assess movement, identify the areas that need work, and deliver hands-on treatment alongside a simple home or stable program where appropriate. Many animals visibly relax during treatment, and owners often notice improvements in movement and comfort over the following days.
Animal physiotherapy on the Sunshine Coast
At Absolute Health, Nicky Suckle combines two decades of human physiotherapy with a Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy from The London Veterinary College. A competitive horse rider herself, Nicky treats performance horses, dogs and other animals across the Sunshine Coast. Learn more on our animal physiotherapy page, or visit her dedicated practice at animalphysiotherapist.com.au.
