The benefits of physical therapy and post-surgical rehabilitation have long been recognized in people. People benefit emotionally and physiologically from physical therapy after surgery and injury. In the human medical field, physical therapy and rehabilitation are utilized to reduce muscle atrophy, resolve inflammation, improve joint biomechanics, promote wound healing, and reduce joint, muscle, and tendon stiffness. The overall goal is to promote an earlier return to function. More recently, work in the veterinary field has shown the same benefits to be true for animal patients. VSS, recognized as a pioneer in veterinary physical therapy and rehabilitation, continues to be actively involved in advancing the science of physical therapy in this new and exciting area of pet care. Dr. Shealy is one of the founders of Animal Rehabilitation Centeral (ARC). ARC, a company formed by the leaders in small animal physical therapy, was created to promote and establish and promote standards in animal physical therapy based on controlled studies. ARC's missions include education, protocol development, research studies, consulting, and treatment. VSS physical therapy centers are ARC affiliated centers maintaining the standards established by the leaders in rehabilitation. Performing orthopedic or neurological surgery, or fitting a cast or splint and then discharging the patient is an outdated approach. Research on the effects of immobilization on muscle atrophy, nutrition of intervertebral disc induced by motion, healing of articular cartilage, and passive mobilization on healing tendons have changed the post-injury and postoperative care of companion and sporting animals. It is known that as soon as surgery is performed or an injury has occurred to a joint, the muscle fibers in and around the joint start to atrophy. This atrophy results in loss of control of the joint and increases forces on the affected area. Without adequate physical therapy there will be increased swelling in the tissues that will create stiffer muscles and tendons. Stiffer muscles and tendons increase the risk of further injury. At the Advanced Veterinary Diagnostic and Treatment Center, we offer several different modalities and procedures for small animal physical therapy and rehabilitation. They are generally used in combination to achieve optimum results. These include state of the art bioelectric stimulation and therapeutic ultrasound equipment, and a newly designed whirlpool for animals. A spa pool complete with forced jets producing a current of resistance against which patients may swim is designed to provide swim therapy and hydrotherapy. Each has their specific benefits: Bioelectric stimulation • enhances muscle reeducation (lessens atrophy) • promotes healing • reduces pain • reduces swelling Therapeutic ultrasound • promotes healing • increases tendon strength • decreases inflammation Spa pool / Underwater Treadmill • hydrotherapy • promotes muscle reeducation • restores range of motion in joints • shortens recovery period These advanced therapies along with cryotherapy, heat therapy, strenght conditioning, weight loss, and passive motion exercises will be utilized in protocols specifically tailored to the needs of each patient. Our vision at Veterinary Specialists of the Southeast is to advance the level of practice of veterinary medicine to maximize the enjoyment of the human-animal bond, while at the same time maintaining and improving the quality of life of your client's pet. Thanks for choosing VSS and making the Advanced Veterinary Diagnostic and Treatment Center possible.