Canine TPLO Rehabilitation

Canine TPLO rehab lasts about 12 weeks, focusing on strict rest, controlled leash walks, and gentle range-of-motion exercises to restore limb function. Initial care includes icing the incision (3-5 days) and, starting within 24 hours, passive range of motion (PROM) exercises to reduce stiffness, often performed 2-3 times daily.

Phase 1: Initial Recovery (Weeks 0-2) 

• Rest: Confine to a small area or crate to prevent jumping and running.
• Ice: Apply ice packs to the knee for 10-15 minutes, 3-4 times a day, to reduce swelling.
• Leash Walks: Very short (5 min) potty breaks 3-4 times a day, using a sling for support if necessary.
• Passive Range of Motion (PROM): Gently flex and extend the hip, knee, and hock joints (approx. 10-15 reps, 3 times/day) to maintain joint mobility.

Phase 2: Early Strengthening (Weeks 2-4) 

• Increased Walking: Gradually increase leash walks to 10-15 minutes.
• Controlled Activity: Continue strict restriction; avoid stairs and slippery floors.
• Massage: Gently massage the thigh muscles to relieve tension.

Phase 3: Building Strength (Weeks 4-8+) 

• Increased Activity: Slowly increase walking duration, potentially starting small, controlled uphill walks or "sit-to-stand" exercises (at weeks 4-6).
• Hydrotherapy: Underwater treadmill work is ideal for building strength without overloading the joint.

Important Tips & Precautions

• Stop if Pain Occurs: Never force the leg during exercises.
• Signs of Overdoing It: If lameness increases, rest the dog for 24 hours, apply ice, and contact your vet.
• Weight Management: Keep your dog lean to minimise joint stress.
• Veterinary Follow-up: Regular check-ups are essential to monitor bone healing.

Always follow the specific, tailored protocol provided by your veterinary surgeon.

• Hydrotherapy
• Physiotherapy
• Osteopathy
• Red Light
• Ice Packs
• Massage

Treated by: Eleanor Andrews - M.Ost, D.O. Dip. Animal Osteopathy, PGCertHE, PG Cert. Paediatric Osteopathy)

@ New Forest Animal Osteopathy

With Senior Hydrotherapist Rebecca Court (Bex) - DIP HSA | RCH | SENIOR HYDROTHERAPIST

@ Pawseidon , Dorset

Ripley attended physiotherapy sessions fortnightly after his TPLO surgeries & then after in order to assist with his mobility (osteoarthritis)

With: Rachael Dickinson

Where: Hands On Physiotherapy, Wimborne Dorset

https://handsonphysiotherapy.co.uk/