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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