Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation in Geriatric Dogs and Cats

Abstract

The word “geriatric” refers to the medicine of the elderly and it is used in veterinary medicine for animals that have completed 75% of their lifespan. As the size of an animal increases, the age at which they become geriatric decreases, therefore; geriatric age varies amongst different species and breeds. Homeostatic changes occur with increasing age and some diseases such as obesity, tumor formation, orthopedic disorders, cardiovascular disorders and neurological disorders are frequently seen. Some breeds are genetically predisposed to such diseases. Thus, regular screening tests and clinical examinations are important for early diagnosis. Geriatric physiotherapy is a developing field that is noninvasive and, in some cases, can be used as a form of primary treatment or supportive treatment. Physiotherapy prevents muscle atrophy and reduces pain caused by inflammation all the while improving the patient’s quality of life. There is a wide range of different methods used in physiotherapy; TENS and NMES devices, passive and active movement exercises, hydrotherapy, acupuncture, massage, laser therapy, ECSWT and cryotherapy. However, treatment protocols are tailored by physicians to fit each patient’s needs depending on the disease and severity of the disease to be treated.