Range-of-Motion Exercises and Stretching: Enhancing Mobility and Recovery
Range-of-motion (ROM) exercises are foundational to therapeutic recovery, particularly for pets recovering from surgery or injury. These exercises aim to restore flexibility, improve joint mobility, and encourage tissue remodeling. For example, range-of-motion exercises, especially after procedures like ACL surgery, play a critical role in regaining mobility and reducing stiffness.
How ROM Exercises and Stretching Work
- Passive Range of Motion: PROM involves gently moving your pet’s joints without muscle engagement. It is an essential step in rehabilitation, especially for dogs after ACL surgery, helping maintain joint flexibility while minimizing strain on healing tissues.
- Stretching: Stretching is distinct from PROM as it targets muscles and connective tissues at their end range, held for 15–30 seconds. This promotes flexibility and tissue remodeling while reducing the risk of scar tissue formation.
- Prolonged Mechanical Stretching: This technique applies sustained stretching to prevent contractures and restore mobility to stiff joints.
Key Aspects of the Techniques
- Passive Range of Motion: PROM exercises are safe and effective for maintaining joint movement during the initial stages of recovery, particularly for post-surgical cases.
- Stretching Frequency: For chronic conditions, stretching sessions performed 3–5 times weekly are sufficient for tissue remodeling and adaptation without overstressing the joints.
- Biomechanical Stress: Both PROM and active exercises gently stress tissues along their natural lines of tension, encouraging healing and flexibility.
Key Benefits of ROM Exercises and Stretching
- Improved Joint Flexibility: Incorporating range of motion exercises for dogs helps restore motion to injured or post-operative joints, improving overall mobility.
- Tissue Healing and Remodeling: Controlled stretching and passive range of motion exercises for dogs apply biomechanical stress to promote tissue healing and prevent scar tissue formation.
- Prevention of Contractures: Techniques like prolonged mechanical stretching are particularly beneficial for high-risk areas, such as the carpus, ensuring long-term flexibility and comfort.
Why Choose Veterinary Kinetics Rehab for ROM and Stretching?
- Tailored Rehabilitation Plans: Dr. Holly Pollard-Wright designs customized programs to meet the specific needs of your pet, including specialized range of motion exercises for dogs after ACL surgery.
- Holistic Integration: ROM exercises and stretching are part of a comprehensive therapeutic approach to recovery and mobility enhancement.
- Experienced Care: Every session ensures that passive range of motion is applied safely and effectively, maximizing comfort and results.
Restore your pet’s mobility and quality of life with carefully guided range of motion exercises and stretching at Veterinary Kinetics Rehab. Whether addressing post-surgical recovery or chronic conditions, our tailored programs promote healing and long-term flexibility.