Services

What to Expect in a Visit

Your initial appointment lasts approximately two hours, including a thorough orthopedic and health examination, video recording of movement, and neurological assessment as necessary. Dr. Weddle will review your pet’s history and diagnostic tests, discuss her assessment, and present treatment options to help you select the best plan. Subsequent therapy sessions may last 45 to 90 minutes and may include:

Diagnostic MSK Ultrasound

This modality is used to assess joints, muscles, and tendons in more detail than radiographs and is less expensive than MRI. Because it is non-invasive and requires minimal sedation, ultrasound is frequently used for diagnosing injuries and monitoring the healing process.

We are one of the select few practices in Central Virginia offering MSK Ultrasound for canine patients.

Manual Therapy

Manual Therapy involves advanced hands on techniques such as joint and spine mobilization, massage, stretches, and other interventions. These methods aim to improve joint health and flexibility, activate muscles and connective tissues, reduce muscle spasms, improve muscle flexibility, stimulate nerves, reduce pain, and restore optimal function.

At this time we are the only practice in Central Virginia to carry the designation of Certified Canine Manual Therapist.

PiezoWave Therapy

PiezoWave is a type of “shockwave” therapy. This modality uses acoustic waves to mechanically stimulate deep tissues in a focused and precise manner, triggering the body’s self-healing process. PiezoWave is frequently used for treating acute and chronic bone, joint, and tendon injuries, such as osteoarthritic conditions, muscle and tendon strains, fractures, and muscle spasms. By customizing the protocol for each patient, discomfort is minimized, and sedation is rarely necessary.

We are the first practice in the Central Virginia area to introduce the revolutionary PiezoWave Therapy.

Therapeutic Laser

Photobiomodulation therapy (laser therapy) uses a special wavelength light to stimulate cellular function and blood flow, promote tissue repair and nerve regeneration, and reduce pain and inflammation. It is used frequently for back injuries, muscle strain, joint injuries, and arthritis. We use protocols specific to each patient to safely maximize their response to treatment.

Exercise Therapy

Exercises are a vital part of rehabilitation therapy. Therapeutic exercises are designed to increase muscle strength and endurance, promote proper motion during walking and running, improve coordination and balance, and help burn calories for weight loss. Dr. Weddle designs specific home exercise plans for each patient based on their individual needs and progress during therapy.

Assistive Devices

Assistive devices can help support weight and encourage proper limb use for pets recovering from injuries or managing neurological weakness. Mobility aids include Help ‘Em Up harnesses, Biko resistance bands, no knuckle training socks, non-skid boots, bandages, braces, and carts.

PULSED ELECTROMAGNETIC FIELD

PEMF Therapy like the Assisi Loop delivers specific electromagnetic wavelengths to damaged tissue to help reduce pain and accelerate healing. The Assisi Loop is safe and easy for the owner to use between visits but should not be used by owners with electronic medical devices like pumps or pacemakers.

ASSISI LOOPS AND PADS ARE AVAILABLE FOR SALE BY PRESCRIPTION ONLY.

Therapeutic Ultrasound

Therapeutic Ultrasound uses high frequency soundwaves to increase blood flow and promote proper alignment of connective tissue. It can improve healing of muscles, tendons, and ligaments.

Electrical Stimulation Therapy

Neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) uses electrical impulses to stimulate muscle contractions. It can be used to help slow muscle atrophy in weak and paralyzed pets. Transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) uses a low voltage of electrical current to block pain receptors and improve comfort.

Nutritional Supplements/Medication

There are a variety of diet supplements and medications available that can control pain, reduce inflammation and improve healing. Dr. Weddle recommends specific products based on each pets’ individual needs.