Which physical therapy modalities are recommended to improve mobility in osteoarthritis in senior dogs?

• A. Massage and thermal therapy only
• B. Hydrotherapy and aquatic therapy only
• C. Therapeutic exercise, hydrotherapy, range-of-motion and strengthening, massage, thermal therapy, and home programs
• D. No physical therapy modalities are recommended

Answer: (C)

A multimodal approach that combines exercise-based therapy with supportive modalities best improves mobility in senior dogs with osteoarthritis. Therapeutic exercise and targeted strengthening build the muscles around the joints and improve gait without overloading arthritic joints. Hydrotherapy uses water to reduce joint load, allowing more movement and cardiovascular work with less pain. Range-of-motion work helps keep joints flexible and prevents stiffness, while massage eases muscle tension and enhances tissue quality to move more freely. Thermal therapy, used appropriately, can loosen tissues and reduce stiffness, making movement easier. A home exercise program reinforces progress and keeps gains between therapy sessions, promoting sustained improvements in mobility. Relying on only one modality or using none misses essential benefits and is not aligned with common rehab practice for canine osteoarthritis.