chartered & Animal Physiotherapist, Lambourn
Nurturing the wellbeing of animals and humans.
Like us, animals feel pain, yet they express it differently since they can't vocalise their discomfort. Musculoskeletal issues like back pain, tendon and ligament sprains, muscle strains and arthritis are common challenges they face. Rehabilitation is crucial after injury, neurological issues and surgery. My work revolves around horses, dogs, people and the occasional cat. It's a joy to support animals and people on their journey to healing and happiness!
About physiotherapy
Physiotherapy is a holistic approach designed to restore movement and dysfunction following injury, illness or disability. Physiotherapists help people and animals through movement, exercise, manual therapy, electrotherapy (including INDIBA®, education and advice.
We’ll first discuss the current problem and then I’ll perform a full assessment. In the case of horses, this will involve watching them move both in-hand, on the lunge and ridden. In the case of dogs and cats, their natural movement and gait will be observed. A hands-on assessment will then be performed and a treatment plan developed from the findings.
For horses I can travel to your yard. I do however try to stay within a 30 mile radius of Lambourn.
For dogs and people, you can be seen in Lambourn. Please bring your dog on a lead. If you have a pet allergy please also let me know beforehand.
There is parking but the driveway is steep. The clinic room is easily accessed (just one step).
What does an assessment involve?
We'll first discuss the current problem and then I'll perform a full assessment. In the case of horses, this will involve watching them move both in-hand, on the lunge, and if indicated, ridden. Tack and equipment will also be assessed. In the case of dogs and cats, their natural movement and gait will be observed.
Muscles and joints will be palpated/felt for any tenderness, tightness, stiffness or muscle spasm. Findings will then be collated, and a treatment plan and rehabilitation program formulated - appropriate to the animal’s condition.
I'm keen to work with your vet and it's often useful to arrange a joint assessment to optimise the outcome.
What treatments are used?
The choice of treatment is of course determined by the assessment and problems identified.
Treatment may involve any of the following: massage, stretches, mobilisations and manipulation. Electrotherapy may also be indicated; in which case INDIBA®, LASER, H-wave, TENS, muscle stimulation and ultrasound may be used.
A rehabilitation programme will be designed specifically to your animals needs.
For deep seated chronic pain cases, particularly involving the horse’s neck, a treatment under sedation may be recommended to address the problem, and this will be arranged in conjunction with your vet.
About INDIBA®
INDIBA is an electromagnetic radiofrequency medical device. Since its establishment in 1983, INDIBA has gained global recognition for its effectiveness in treating both humans and animals, including my clients.
But what exactly is INDIBA and how does it work?
A gentle electromagnetic radiofrequency current, precisely set at 448kHz, flows through the body via an electrode device. Exiting through a strategically placed return plate on your horse’s sternum, INDIBA forms a closed circuit, allowing me to tailor the direction and depth of the current for optimal results.
INDIBA treatment boasts a myriad of benefits for your animal's cells and blood flow. Biostimulation enhances cell health nutrition, while vascularisation improves blood flow, oxygenation, and cellular drainage. Plus, hyperactivation works wonders in removing toxins, combating fibrosis, and promoting tissue repair.
INDIBA offers versatility. Whether your animal's treatment requires a warm touch or a cooler approach, I can adjust the heat element with clinical precision. And regardless of temperature, your animal's targeted tissue always receives the magic frequency of 448kHz, ensuring effective treatment.
Backed by studies led by Professor Tim Watson, INDIBA has been proven highly effective in increasing blood flow and tissue temperature, surpassing other electrotherapies on the market.
With a wealth of published scientific papers and ongoing research, INDIBA stands as a beacon of hope in injury treatment and rehabilitation for horses, dogs, cats and humans. Get in touch to find out more.
How many sessions will I need?
This will of course depend on the extent of the problem and the nature of the condition. Sessions are usually an hour long. Please discuss this with me and we can work out a suitable programme.
How quickly will I notice a difference?
Hopefully after the first session there will already be an improvement in symptoms, but sometimes a couple of sessions are needed to feel the full benefits. You will be given a bespoke exercise programme which will facilitate your recovery quicker if adhered to.
How much does a session cost?
Horses are £70 per hour, plus travel.
Dogs, cats & people are £60 per hour.
I take payments in cash on the day or via BACS beforehand.
If you or your pet are insured, then the cost of physiotherapy can be claimed.
Horses, Dogs, Cats & People
How I Can Help
Horses & Ponies
If a horse is in pain it may change its behaviour. For example, your horse may start bucking, napping or rearing, or show resentment towards their saddle. He might feel stiff on one rein or start refusing fences and you may see changes in your horse's movement. Your horse might be recovering from an injury or already undergoing treatment from your vet. All types of horses, from racehorses to Shetlands and everything in between, can be treated.
Dogs & Cats
Both dogs and cats benefit from physiotherapy if they have arthritis (OA), elbow dysplasia, osteochondritis dessicans (OCD), back pain, or to aid recovery following a neurological condition or post operation.
All conditions should be thoroughly investigated by your vet prior to physiotherapy. I see dogs, cats and their owners at my clinic in Lambourn.
I'm more than happy to have a preliminary chat with you, so don't hesitate to get in touch.
PEOPLE
Whether it's for rehab, pain relief, or overall wellness, physiotherapy can enhance your movement and address various conditions. I can evaluate and treat a range of issues, from injuries to disabilities. Different treatments target specific areas and ailments. If you're dealing with chronic pain, recovering from surgery or a sports injury, physiotherapy may be recommended by your doctor. Don't wait for pain to worsen; being proactive about your health can prevent further issues.
about me
Passionate about Animals
I've always had a passion for animals. That’s why I chose to pursue a career in physiotherapy, graduating as a Chartered Physiotherapist from the University of the West of England back in 1998. For eight years I dedicated myself to working with people, both in the NHS and private practice. Along the way, I pursued my passion further by obtaining a Masters degree in sports physiotherapy from University College London in 2004.
It was during 2004 that I fulfilled a life-long ambition to attend the Olympic games in Athens as a volunteer physiotherapist. As I'm sure you can imagine, it was an unforgettable experience and a certainly a career highlight!
After that unforgettable experience, I decided it was time to follow my heart and focus on treating and working with animals. I enrolled in the core knowledge and skills course offered by ACPAT and upgraded to category A status in 2006. Following this, I had the privilege of working alongside Amanda Sutton in Winchester at a bustling animal physiotherapy practice for a year before venturing out to start my own practice in the Newbury area.
In addition to my clinical work, I was also the programme manager for the MSc in Veterinary Physiotherapy at Hartpury/UWE until 2016. I still teach there annually.
Outside of work, you'll often find me immersed in the joys of eventing, playing with my dogs, or simply enjoying quality time with friends and family. It's a pleasure to share my passion for animals and physiotherapy with others, both professionally and personally!
Qualifications
BSc (Hons) Physiotherapy (The University of the West of England)
MSc Sports Physiotherapy (UCL)
Category A ACPAT member
Polly is a Chartered Physiotherapist and a member of the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists (CSP), the health and care professions council (HCPC) and a category A member of (ACPAT) the Association of Chartered Physiotherapists in Animal Therapy.
Under the veterinary act Polly will only work with your animal with permission or a referral from your vet.
RAMP (Register of Animal Musculoskeletal Practitioners) member.
Polly regularly attends appropriate CPD courses (continuing professional development).
booking your session
Arrange Your Physiotherapy Appointment
contact Polly in the first instance
If your vet has requested physiotherapy treatment and you are insured you will most likely be able to claim off your insurance. If you are approaching me directly, you will need to firstly get the approval of your vet. You can contact me if you have any queries, or wish to book in, on 07788 725609
Veterinary Referral Forms
Under the veterinary surgeons act it is not possible for Polly to see your animal without a referral from from your vet. For vets and clients please download the Veterinary Referral Form to be returned to Polly prior to your appointment.
Get in touch
Physiotherapy Enquiries & Appointments
You can contact me by phone on
07788 725609
Alternatively, you can text or Whatsapp me.
Email me directly at pollyhutson@gmail.com
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