Rehabilitation
Fitzpatrick Referrals believes that good rehabilitation is integral to the success of orthopaedic and neuro-surgical intervention, promoting increased mobility, reducing pain, inflammation and recovery time.
We are the only veterinary practice in the country with an in-house team of Chartered Physiotherapists for inpatients and outpatients. In addition to our three Physiotherapists we also have three dedicated rehabilitation nurses, three hydrotherapists, two hydrotherapy assistants, two rehabilitation administrative staff and a certified veterinary acupuncturist, all of whom work closely together with the practice’s clinical team to ensure that patients have the quickest recovery possible.
Just like in humans, animal physiotherapy aims to improve the range of motion of joints and aid in the return of muscle function after injury or surgery. Physiotherapy promotes healing and recovery, relieves pain and reduces swelling and also eases clinical signs caused by arthritis. Techniques used to help animals recover from trauma or operations include: manual therapy (stimulatory, mobilising and inhibitory techniques), electrotherapy (laser, ultrasound, muscle stimulation and shockwave therapy), active exercise (to improve strength, stamina, proprioception and core stability). Physiotherapy and hydrotherapy exercise, however, does not have to be used purely for recovery and can be an important part of an animal’s normal exercise programme and overall well-being, for example, helping with weight loss, particularly in dogs.
Advanced facilities
We are proud to offer a state-of-the-art hydrotherapy and physiotherapy centre – the most advanced facilities for small animal rehabilitation in the UK. We have an integrated approach to rehabilitation with each of our patients receiving a unique rehabilitation programme created by our Chartered Animal Physiotherapists, ensuring that all of our patients receive the very best in post-operative care.
Hydrotherapy and Physiotherapy
Our hydrotherapy pool and physiotherapy clinics are open to all, without the need for a referral to one of our vets. We also offer an acupuncture service once a week which we have found makes a significant difference to some of our post-operative cases.
We are open during the daytime, evenings and weekends.
For direct referrals for physiotherapy, hydrotherapy, acupuncture or for more details, please contact our us on 01483 423761.