THE ROLE OF EXERCISE AND PHYSICAL MODALITIES IN THE TREATMENT OF OSTEOARTHRITIS

Physical rehabilitation may be an important part of a treatment plan f or animals with osteoarthritis. The goals of rehabilitation are to min imize discomfort, improve joint range of motion, maintain muscle stren gth and fitness, and improve function. Therapeutic exercise and physic al modalities, including heat and cold application, massage, and ultra sound and electrotherapy, may be incorporated into a program designed through the collaborative efforts of veterinarians and physical therap ists. Documented results are necessary to improve rehabilitation proto cols and patient management.