By: Deana Cappucci-Lorentz, LVT, CCRA – Coral Springs Animal Hospital Surgery
& Physical Rehab Nurse
Billie, is a 5 year old Cockapoo, who presented to CSAH in late May for acute hind
limb paresis. He underwent a hemilaminectomy and a few days later presented
with no deep pain perception, and was non ambulatory. Billie was then started in
an aggressive rehab program 3x weekly to focus on neuro-sensory stimulation,
and proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation. Billie’s owners also purchased a cart
to help Billie get around easier and utilize the cart as a form of therapy for gait
retraining.
Billie’s treatments consisted of NEMS to help re-educate the muscles of his hind
limbs, laser therapy to his spine to help promote circulation to the surrounding
tissues of the spine, and exercises that focused on weight bearing and pattern
walking. The use of the Under Water Treadmill provided buoyancy to facilitate
Billie’s weight and help retrain him to walk. A strict home exercise program was
prescribed for owners to perform while he was not at the facility. After 4 months of
consecutive therapy, Billie is showing improved signs of motor, and is currently
“spinal walking.” Billie continues to come for therapy and his owners are happy
that Billie continues to improve and he is still the happy dog who everyone loves!