Thermotherapy can be used for acute
and chronic pain. Cold therapy causes
vasoconstriction thus limiting the
amount of blood flow to an area. It
also decreases prostaglandins and
nerve conduction velocity; therefore it
diminishes pain and inflammation.
When
ice
is
combined
with
compression, significant decreases in
swelling can be seen (Drygas 2011).
Icing is usually recommended during
the acute inflammatory phase of
healing (first 3-5 days). This therapy
can be initiated while the cat is
recovering from anesthesia after
surgery and is especially beneficial
after orthopedic procedures. However,
icing can be used for longer periods of
time if swelling and pain are still
present. Ice should be applied to the
treatment area every 4-6 hours for 15-
20 minutes. Applying heat, in the form
of
warm
compresses,
causes
vasodilation and smooth muscle
relaxation.
Therefore
warm
compresses are used for pain relief
and to decrease muscle spasms. Heat
should not be applied during the
acute inflammatory phase of healing;
instead heat can be applied during
chronic inflammation and chronic pain
for 15-20 minutes every 6-12 hours.
Passive and active range of motion
exercises improve joint integrity,
decrease pain, and lubricate joints
(Coates 2013). Passive range of motion
is when a practitioner or owner moves
the cat’s bony segments around a joint
axis. This can be done when a cat is
unable to ambulate, for example when
recovering from neuropraxia. It is
important to move the joint into full
flexion and full extension to maximize
the benefits. Active range of motion is
when the cat moves its joints
voluntarily; for example when walking,
sitting or jumping. Cats can be
motivated to perform active range of
motion via the use of treats. Active
range of motion allows the cat to
move through their joint axes on their
own accord and to their own level of
tolerance. Owners can be taught
these exercises to perform at home.
Cats prefer ambient temperatures of
84-100 ̊F, which can be provided with
a micro-environment (warm air
blankets, warming blankets and
protection
from
drafts).
Environmental
modifications
are
important to consider in cats with
osteoarthritis; for example providing
steps or ramps so that cats can reach