So after an action packed weekend at the APA conference I finished my presentations this year with one for the Vets on the sunshine coast.
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This time I presented on Physiotherapy management of the Geriatric Patient. I hope they found this talk informative including information on the latest research in human management of arthritis. Especially managing hip/stifle arthritis, I can easily apply the research to what I see in clinical practice for my canine patients. Interestingly enough 90{e3fb1fe53f05b69f60c00dc4a952f24a2d139bfc00a4c604e98904289337f719} of cats also suffer from Arthritis – an area that can perhaps be managed better to improve quality of life of all our 4 legged friends
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My greatest challenge in managing arthritic animals is in the increasing numbers of obese dogs. Apparently we now have 40{e3fb1fe53f05b69f60c00dc4a952f24a2d139bfc00a4c604e98904289337f719} obesity rates in australia of dogs!! This has been shown to greatly reduce the median life span and increase the progression of arthritis.
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Age is just a number. There is so much we can offer our elderly best friends to make them more comfortable and improve their stability and strength to support their joints.
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If you would like to see how you can help your friend each day feel free to contact me. I love treating this age group. With such keen owners it is a very rewarding part of my work.
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Cheers
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