Hind Limb Passive Range of Motion: There's Nothing Passive About It!

Essential, imperative, necessary, vital. These are just a few words to describe the importance of joint range of motion in your pet’s quality of life. Imagine if you had a stiff knee, how difficult it would be to squat down to get that pan out of the kitchen drawer. It hurts so bad as you struggle to rise again, that the next time, you choose simply to bend at the waist. Oh no!  After doing that a few times, now your back is killing you. Your dog goes through the same thing when climbing the stairs, squatting to eliminate, or simply sitting. How can we help? By doing passive range of motion (PROM), which is having someone, like the pet owner, move their joints through their normal motion for them. PROM aids function by protecting the joint cartilage, increasing blood flow, decreasing swelling, and ensuring all tissues are at their ideal length. Arthritis from injury or aging is one of the top diagnosis for which pet owners seek veterinary care, and the first step in treatment should be PROM.  As we perform PROM, we can assess not only the quantity of the motion, but also the quality of the motion. Is there crepitus (crackling in the joint), warmth, swelling. Getting our hands on our pets provides all this information and more. Listen to Cathy and Chris to learn the mechanics of how to perform PROM on your pet’s pelvis, hip, knee, ankle, and toes. Your pet will thank you!

Links mentioned in the show:
Through a Dog's Ear e-book: Using sound to improve the health & behavior of your canine companion.
Though a Dog's Ear music purchasing options.

Check out our video tutorial on passive range of motion of the hind limb. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Npf-EuVNBz0

Support the show

Disclaimer

Check out VitalVet.org for all PetAbility Podcast episodes related to rehabilitation as well as a plethora of other resources and product information.

MedcoVet (show sponsor) - the next generation in laser therapy by putting healing in the hands of the pet owner!

By using the Promo Code PETPOD22, when placing your first order with any of our affiliate partners, you will receive 10% off and PetAbility receives 10% .
Dr. Buzby’s Toe Grips – dog nail grips to keep your dog from slipping! Extra love – use this link and the entire 20% goes to support our show!
HedzUpPets Watercollars – save your dog from drowning with this unique lightweight collar when around any body of water!
Calm & Cozy Cat Wrap - a must-have for cat owners and vet pros working with cats! Use PETPOD22 for $5 off your order.