Small Animal Physiotherapy with Julia Martin

title: Small Animal Physiotherapy

Julia Martin MCSP

CHARTERED ANIMAL PHYSIOTHERAPIST

Frequently asked questions about physiotherapy:

Click on the questions below to find the answers...

What is physiotherapy?

How can physiotherapy be of benefit to my dog/cat?

Why should I choose a Chartered Physiotherapist?

What is ACPAT?

Where can I get more information about animal physiotherapy?

What is physiotherapy?

A very concise description would include that:-

Physiotherapy is a healthcare profession especially concerned with function and movement and thereby optimising potential.

Animals, like people, respond to physiotherapy.

In 1985, The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy (ACPAT) formed. This is a specialist group of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy where Category A members are recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons to lawfully treat veterinary referred animals.

The title 'Chartered Physiotherapist' is protected by law and can only be used by physiotherapists who have achieved a high level of academic and practical training in all aspects of physiotherapy and are consequently qualified and trained to practice.

All Chartered Physiotherapists have the qualification of MCSP (Member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy) after their names.

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How can physiotherapy be of benefit to my dog/cat?

Physiotherapy can be used to help produce a dog or cat's full functional potential and thereby reducing the risk of further injuries developing.

Common conditions and problems referred can include:

Spinal conditions - such as disc disease
Arthritic lameness problems including those in overweight and/or the older dog
Joint problems - arthritis, degenerative joint disease, hip dysplasia, injury, pain/swelling/stiffness in joints.
Soft tissue injuries - to ligament, tendon, joint capsule and muscle
Pre and post surgical rehabilitation - following orthopaedic surgery
Fractures - treatment and rehabilitation to facilitate healing and restoration of function
Sports injuries and performance difficulties in the athletic dog
Neurological conditions - spinal cord trauma or disease, nerve trauma
Difficulty coping with certain movements such as: negotiating the stairs, getting into and out of the car, rising from lying down to standing, reluctance to play or exercise - leading to weight and fitness problems
Preventative physiotherapy that can help minimise recurrence of a problem.

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Why should I choose a Chartered Physiotherapist?

Chartered animal physiotherapists are extremely well trained and skilled to assess and treat a wide variety of musculo-skeletal and neurological problems.

Julia provides physiotherapy consultations and treatments to dogs and cats in association with your own veterinary team, giving a cohesive and caring approach for the health and welfare of your pet. This close professional liason gives a specially attuned approach to optimise healing and recovery.

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What is ACPAT?

ACPAT is an abbreviation for 'The Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy'.

It is a clinical specialist group of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy that was officially formed in 1985 and is recognised by the Royal College of Veterinary Surgeons for Category A members to lawfully treat veterinary referred animals.

Members:

Work with veterinary referral and communicate with your veterinary surgeon regarding treatment undertaken
Liase with other professionals such as veterinary nurses, behaviourists, trainers and, of course, animal owners
Have professional and public liability insurance
Have educational links with the Royal Veterinary College (University of London)
Participate in on-going professional training (CPD programs)
Adhere to the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy's regulations and standards of practice.

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Where can I get more information about animal physiotherapy?

The Professionals in Animal Physiotherapy

To contact an ACPAT Physiotherapist: