Margot

Margot 13/06/23 Margot was seen for physiotherapy on the 13/6/23 to address muscular weakness in her hindlimbs. The below report outlines all findings from her Subjective Margot has shown some difficulties with rising and is losing strength in her back legs – the aim of physiotherapy is to address any muscular weakness to try to rebuild and maintain Margots independence for as long as possible. Objective Margot was anxious and reluctant at first but did settle down into treatment. From watching her walk around there is increased loading of the forelimbs and shoulders and a reduced amount of weight being supported through her back legs, in particular the left hindlimb is externally rotated and does not look to have the standard weight carrying capacity of the right hind-limb. In the sitting posture this is also seen as the left hindlimb is held laterally. Assessment On palpation there was some increased muscle tone around both shoulders extending into Margots neck and back, this restricts her stride length with the front legs due to the increased tension in these muscles. Massage and stretching was used to address this in part as Margot still requires some tension here to aid with her current state of locomotion. Some back pain from muscle spasming was found on the left side at the rib heads and there was some crepitus in her left knee/stifle which was thickened and showed muscle loss around this joint. Both hips were resented being touched and Margot would look round and then walk around the room to prevent further palpation here. Plan and Exercises  To address muscle imbalance in the hindlimbs, Margot should do 5-10 sit to stands per day, the sits MUST be square as pictured overleaf. This will build up hind muscles and also keep strength for rising from the floor.  Nose stretches – With a treat/chicken have Margot stand up, let her nose follow the treat under her chest to her wrists, this will help gently stretch her back to alleviate some of the spasming there. Repeat 5x  Where possible raise food and water bowls, this helps to prevent further overload of Margots shoulders and engages her back legs.  If there are any slippy floors where MErgot usually needs to travel round for the toilet or to food, try to borrow or source carpet runners this helps her paws grip and there is less chance of slipping. horsestohoundsphysio@gmail.com www.horsestohoundsphysio.co.uk 07729002162 Not how all toes point forward for the good sit? – this prepares Margot for standing as her legs are under her body. Holding the treat, draw margots head down towards her front legs, if she can go level with her legs this will be far enough. If she steps backwards, twists or shakes/stumbles then we need to make it easier and not ask for so much stretch under the legs. horsestohoundsphysio@gmail.com www.horsestohoundsphysio.co.uk 07729002162