#TherapyThursday: Four-Legged Friends Help Us Stand On Our Own Two Feet

We can all attest to the mood lifting and stress relieving benefits of having a pet around. For centuries, humans have relied on their furry companions as workers and rescuers, and have loved them as playmates and honorary family members; it should come as no surprise that physical therapists have learned to leverage the special bond between dogs and humans to help patients recover from a number of physical ailments.

Dogs that enthusiastically retrieve a ball again and again during a game of fetch can help recovering stroke victims improve their balance and throwing skills. This simple exercise also strengthens the patient’s muscles while typically resulting in a lengthier exercise routine than if performed without the dog.

Patients in physical therapy often strive to increase mobility and independence, especially through regaining their ability to walk. Dogs hold a steady gait while walking alongside patients, who can then keep a secure pace of their own. This consistency helps comfort patients and provides them with noticeable improvements as they compare their strides with that of the dogs.

It has been found that people who take dogs for a daily walk rather than going with a friend were more likely to stick to the habit. An additional study also found that dog owners got far more physical activity per week than people without one.

Another interesting insight is how dogs can help ease chronic pain. The relief experienced can be attributed to the fact that when people stroke their dogs, the brain releases endorphins. These endorphins are natural painkillers; add this to the fact that dogs also act as a natural distraction that can reduce chronic pain just by spending time with a four-legged friend.

References

https://blog.pawstruck.com/dogs-help-physical-health/

http://www.jobs.net/Article/CB-43-Talent-Network-Healthcare-Pedigreed-Assistants-Dogs-are-Physical-Therapys-Best-Friend

http://www.redbarninc.com/blog/benefits-therapy-animals/

Physical Therapy is the “secret” to better, faster, natural and more affordable pain relief. In 2017, well-known physical therapist and clinic owner, Dr. Michelle Wolpov, PT, DPT, MBA, ATC, CSCS, released the book, “Direct Access to Physical Therapy: The Secret Revealed – How To Relieve Pain & Restore Function WITHOUT Medication, Injections or Surgery” to educate the public about the benefits of self-referral to physical therapy. This book is the first of its kind, to use evidence-based research to validate why a physical therapist is the most qualified to treat pain and musculoskeletal problems, how direct access saves patients time, money, and yields better results, and how to start treatment immediately, without a physician referral. Start your journey to a pain free life today! Available on Amazon for Paperback and Kindle.

For more of Dr. Wolpov’s tips, updates, and the latest information about physical therapy for patients and professionals alike, follow Game Shape Physical Therapy and ThinkPTFirst on Facebook and Instagram.

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