We have many options at our fingertips to offer your pet the most effective combination of treatments possible for his or her individual needs. Have you ever heard the term “multimodal”? It means “relating to, having, or utilizing more than one mode or modality”. It is the perfect word to describe Union Lake Veterinary Hospital’s approach to managing your pet’s pain, whether the pain is due to a chronic condition such as osteoarthritis or a more acute problem such as post-surgical discomfort.
Pharmaceuticals
For most people, drugs come to mind when pet pain control is mentioned. We have a wide variety of pain relief options for your pet depending on the level and intensity of pain. More commonly used pharmaceutical options include drugs that are non-steroidal anti-inflammatories as well as opioids. Non-steroidal anti-inflammatories include medications that are related to the people medication ibuprofen. Opioids include medications related to morphine.
Supplements
Not all pain relief comes in the form of actual drugs. Supplements such as glucosamine, essential fatty acids, and some Chinese herbs may also have pain relieving properties.
Therapeutic laser
During laser therapy, light energy is used to activate processes in the targeted cells to decrease inflammation and provide some analgesia.
Shockwave therapy
Extracorporeal shockwave therapy is yet another alternative therapy that uses sound waves to create changes in targeted cells, relieving pain and stimulating healing.
Acupuncture
Acupuncture uses strategically placed needles to stimulate certain points to provide powerful pain-relieving properties.
Physical rehabilitation
Physical rehabilitation is often another important component of pain management and prevention for many of our patients. Exercising and stimulating muscles, joints, and tendons can cause changes in the body which can lead to pain relief. Our certified staff utilizes an underwater treadmill, massage, electrical stimulation, cavaletti rails, therapy balls, and hydrotherapy for our patients.