Anyone who has experienced chronic pain knows how debilitating it can be. The origins of pain are as numerous and diverse as the pets experiencing it. Once the source of the pain is identified a treatment plan can be devised. Therapy options could include medications, surgery and rehabilitation therapy. For many reasons medications and surgery may not resolve the pain. The side effects of a medication may prevent the patient from being able to receive these drugs. Surgery may not be an option in aged pets or ones that have other medical problems. Sometime medicine and surgery just aren't enough.  Rehabilitation therapy is the third option.

Healing Touch is able to provide the many modalities used in rehabilitation therapy that aid in controlling pain. They may be used in conjunction with or in place of medicine and surgery. Massage therapy can improve circulation, reduce muscle stiffness, decrease the swelling in tissues and improve joint function.  All of theses action can help reduce pain. Ultrasound, the most frequently used modality in human physical therapy, uses sound waves to warm tissues, improve circulation, reduce fluid buildup and promote tissue healing. Electrical stimulation called TENS when applied to the skin,  blocks the impulses in nerves that carry the pain sensations to the brain. Therapeutic exercise can be used to improve the function of supportive tissues. Strengthening the muscles around the spinal column is used to reduce back pain.