We were given a 'crash course' in the principles of physiotherapy with slides and accompanying explanation, during which many aspects of animal care and husbandry including nutrition and exercise were discussed. Much of the recent information about physiotherapy comes from work with thoroughbred racing horses, as well as from Mrs Bromiley's own years of work with dogs and other animals and the range and depth of the talk was comprehensive. An initial veterinary examination and diagnosis is necessary to exclude any existing conditions before physiotherapy will be given. First the damage to the skin and tissue architecture, second the muscular problems which then occur, thirdly the nerves involved in the damage, fourthly the lymphatic system is brought into play for drainage and finally the blood vessels are affected. By using physiotherapy appropriately at specific stages, the recovery cycle can be activated rather than the injury cycle.
Injury produces pain and muscle spasm.
This spasm reduced circulation and the muscles tend to atrophy from lack of blood flow. Ligaments become strained by the pressure of working in connection which results in loss of movement. Adhesion occurs and then tearing of muscles can be a consequence, so injury is prolonged. The key to the cycle is blood circulation since inhibited blood flow reduces chances of recovery. We saw slides of the various machines which are useful for removing pain, stimulating muscle repair and increasing oxygen supply, and then learned how physiotherapy re-educates the limbs to move correctly while actively strengthening the muscles.