The role of exercise and physical modalities in the treatment of osteoarthritis.

Physical rehabilitation is a valuable and often underutilized part of the overall management of small animals with OA. A team consisting of the veterinarian, physical therapist, veterinary technician, and owner is vital to determine and carry out an appropriate therapeutic regimen. To maintain enthusiasm for the program, measurements should be regularly obtained to document progress. In addition, controlled studies should be performed to determine the degree of improvement that may be expected with physical rehabilitation programs.