Goals:

            ▪ return right rear limb to usable status which functions in ambulation

            ▪ improve neuromuscular conditioning and prevent muscle atrophy           

            ▪ improve stifle and hip joint ROM and reverse muscle contraction

            ▪ maintain and ultimately increase cardiovascular fitness

            ▪ regain lost thigh muscling

 Therapy:

            ▪ bioelectric whirlpool for initial sessions –

                        (for relaxation and pain management)

            ▪ passive flexion/extension of left stifle and hip –

                        (used to stretch all flexor muscles)

            ▪ an assortment of therapeutic exercises –

                        (to stimulate the left rear limb)

            ▪ neuromuscular gait retraining using both the land treadmill and UWT -

                        (used once some degree of weight bearing becomes evident)  

How is Duke doing now?

Duke was recently fitted for a new brace to be placed on his affected leg to give him more stability and support.  Duke is now wearing his brace during sessions of his rehab and also at home.  He is coming in to our clinic on a regular basis and is doing well; we are working hard to retrain Duke to place more weight on his affected leg while standing and walking.