08/03/2026
Orthopaedic surgery involves treatment of conditions related to the musculoskeletal system. Examples of conditions that orthopaedic surgery might aim to treat are fractures, FHO, patellar luxation, and cruciate ligament rupture.
A 2020 review of studies on post-surgery recovery for companion animals found that rehab after surgery can help with restoring strength, function, coordination, and balance. Here are some key takeaways to note:
- For 72 hours post-surgery, rehab should focus on reducing pain and inflammation, as well as restoring range of motion, maintaining joint nutrition, and increasing blood flow. Rehab modalities that can help include cryotherapy, passive range of motion (PROM) exercises, and massage.
- After the initial recovery period, rehab can progress to helping the patient recover strength, balance, gait, and original function. Rehab exercises that help with this include hydrotherapy and therapeutic exercises. Pets are encouraged to increase their activity levels during this time!
- Other rehab modalities such as photobiomodulation (laser therapy), therapeutic ultrasound, and shockwave therapy can also help to reduce recovery time and improve healing in both the early and late stages of recovery from orthopaedic surgery.
Have any questions on post-surgery rehab? Contact us today at 87753041!
