After Surgery Rehabilitation
Many dogs will need surgery at some point in their lives, often for orthopedic procedures like cruciate ligament repair in the hind leg. I offer a comprehensive post-operative rehabilitation package that includes six physiotherapy sessions, laser therapy, radiofrequency treatment, massage, customized exercises, and ongoing progression support to aid in recovery.


Perfect for:
Cranial Cruciate Ligament
Patella Luxation,
Spinal surgeries
Dysplasia
Fractures
Post-op rehab helps your dog regain their mobility and return to the activities they love while ensuring optimal healing and full-body function. Every case is unique, so a thorough assessment is conducted before starting treatment.
Physiotherapy is not a one size fits all approach. I use clinical reasoning based on assessments, veterinary input, and owner observations, along with my knowledge in tissue healing and movement, to create a tailored rehabilitation plan for each dog.
Goals of Post-Operative Physiotherapy:
Pain Management – Helping to control and reduce discomfort.
Muscle Relaxation – Relieving tension caused by compensatory movement.
Promoting Healing – Supporting tissue repair and recovery.
Improving Joint Range of Motion – Maintaining flexibility and preventing stiffness.
Enhancing Proprioception – Restoring balance and coordination affected by pain or surgery.
Optimizing Movement Quality – Ensuring the best possible mobility during healing.
Building Strength – Introducing appropriate exercises at the right stages of recovery.
I typically begin post-op physiotherapy 1–2 weeks after surgery, depending on your vet’s recommendations. Many dogs have come to me due to complications after surgery as they did not do physio. For example a little dog 5 weeks post op TPLO surgery not using her leg. One session session with me and using all legs!
Belle
★★★★★
We found Kirsten after our 5 year old springer had cruciate ligament surgery in February this year. We’d had very little advice from the vets, so were anxious about the best course of action for our dog. Belle has really enjoyed every session with Kirsten. She gets excited as we start to drive down the road to Kirsten’s and she has really thrived after having the sessions. Belle’s progress has been amazing and Kirsten has been at the end of the phone ready to offer advice and to ease our worries. Her exercise plan was easy to follow and Belle has come on leaps and bounds in the 6 months since her operation. I cannot recommend Kirsten enough and I am so grateful we found such a great physio!
Gemma


What’s Included in my 6-Session Rehab Package for Post-Op Recovery:
🐾 Block of 6 Tailored Sessions –
Perfect for helping your dog heal after surgery. We start with one session a week for the first two weeks, then gradually spread the next four sessions over the following 11 weeks to match your dog’s progress. The schedule can be adjusted based on your dog's recovery.
💡 Advanced Therapies
Use treatments like Winback TECAR therapy to enhance the body's natural healing process alongside Laser and PEMF
🔍 Comprehensive Care
Every session includes a full assessment, treatments, and customized exercises based on your dog’s needs. We’ll also guide you on how to reduce injury risks at home, with tips on home modifications and more! Out of hours support, with feedback on videos, messages, and detailed guidance throughout.
📑 Continued Support And Guidance
Once the 6 sessions are complete, you’ll have ongoing access to my support and a take-home PDF booklet with everything you need to maintain your dog’s recovery at home.
Price: £270
10% discount
(Insurances generally reimburse you)


After elbow dysplasia surgery Ripple visited the lovely Kirsten Smith Veterinary Physiotherapy this week, she coped well with his over-excitement at meeting her and his overenthusiastic attempts at his exercises and came up with a plan for him.
Kirsten has been absolutely approachable and supportive since I first contacted her, even before Rippys op, can't recommend her enough. She is nearly an hours drive from me but worth the trip and the support she offers is extremely good value as it goes over and above the on site session
Tracy
★★★★★
Get in Touch
I’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about your pet’s needs or would like to discuss treatment options, feel free to reach out via social media, phone, or email. I will do my best to respond to every inquiry as soon as possible. I'm excited to connect with you and your pet!
Phone
07510271832
info@kirstenvetphysio.co.uk