Pet Rehabilitation

Pet Acupuncture Services in Nashville TN

Acupuncture is the ancient Chinese technique that involves placing small, think needles through the skin at specific points on the body. These needles produce a physiologic response that can help promote the body’s natural healing process. Acupuncture has been used for thousands of years to help treat a variety of conditions, such as pain, osteoarthritis, IVDD or other back pain, weakness and other disease processes.

Sometimes, aquapuncture (injection of certain liquids) or electro-acupuncture (mild electric current) can be used to enhance a patient’s response to acupuncture. Acupuncture can often be a cumulative treatment, so we will discuss the appropriate treatment recommendations based on your pet’s needs.

Veterinary Orthotic brace, wrap or wheelchairs in Nashville TN

There are many devices that can be used with patients to help with support and traction. Some of these devices are used short term during recovery and some are more long term devices to help with day to day living. We recommend a variety of different product such as harness, slings, booties, toe grips and paw pad traction devices. We can help you with the right product and the right size for your pet.

In some cases, an orthotic brace, wrap or wheelchair may be necessary for your pet. We can discuss different options and brands and help you make the best decision for your animal. These items often require exact measurements to ensure a comfortable and effective fit.

Belle Meade Animal Hospital provides Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation for your pet

Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a treatment used in rehabilitation to help treat pain. The TENS unit produces a mild tingling sensation on the patient. This treatment is using sensory stimulation to treat pain. It is commonly used after surgery and for muscle pain.

Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) is a treatment used to help stimulate nerves and muscles, especially after neurological trauma and surgeries. It can also be used in patients with paralysis. It can also be used to target specific muscle groups and help strengthen them.

Therapeutic massage, stretching and modified stretches for your pet in Nashville TN

Manual therapies can include many different techniques to help with muscle pain, tight joints and scar formation. These techniques may include therapeutic massage, stretching and modified stretches, and passive range of motion exercises. In neurologic conditions, some therapies may help with patterning and gait retraining. The goal of manual therapy is to help restore normal function to joints and muscles as much as possible.

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy

Pulsed Electromagnetic Field (PEMF) Therapy is the use of electromagnetic frequencies to reduce inflammation, relieve pain, and accelerate healing. PEMF beds have also been shown to decrease stress in patients, especially feline patients. We use a Respond PEMF bed for most of our rehabilitation patients.

Therapeutic Exercises for pets in Nashville TN

Therapeutic exercises or land exercises are one of the cornerstones of rehabilitation in animals. These can be used for a wide variety of injuries or disorders. Exercises are developed on an individual basis, and often change as the patient responds to therapy and gets stronger. Some exercises we use may include the use of therabands, cavaletti poles, various sized exercise balls, discs and peanuts. These exercises can help with gait patterns, strengthening muscles and sports conditioning.

Veterinary Therapeutic Laser in Nashville

We use a Class IV therapeutic laser in clinic frequently on our rehabilitation and geriatric patients. Cold laser therapy uses specific wavelengths of light to help promote tissue healing, decrease pain and reduce inflammation. It can be used in a variety of different disease processes including musculoskeletal and neurological conditions.