From Imaging To Healing: The Canine Rehab RX With Dr. Broadhurst
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In this episode of Diagnostic Tails, Dr. Amy Armentrout and Dr. Lon Hays sit down with internationally renowned rehab specialist Dr. Michelle Broadhurst. Drawing on her background in human chiropractic and decades of experience in both equine and small animal rehabilitation, Dr. Broadhurst dives into powerful recovery stories and breakthrough treatments—from helping paralyzed pets walk again to utilizing cutting-edge tools like shockwave and EMTT therapy. Discover how early intervention, diagnostic precision, and a collaborative rehab approach are transforming outcomes in veterinary medicine.
Timestamps
00:00 – Intro: Welcome to Diagnostic Tails & introduction of Dr. Michelle Broadhurst
01:10 – Dr. Broadhurst’s background: From human chiropractic to equine and small animal rehab
03:00 – What is veterinary rehab?: Beyond recovery—addressing compensation and full-body healing
05:00 – Common cases: Paralysis, post-surgical care, aging pets, and arthritis
06:15 – Prehab and strengthening before surgery
07:10 – Importance of client compliance and home exercises
08:00 – Environmental adaptations: Traction, nail trims, yoga mats & more
09:00 – Modalities used in rehab: Laser, water treadmill, shockwave, EMTT, Teca system, manual therapy
12:30 – Favorite tools: Hands, shockwave, EMTT
13:00 – Case study: 17-year-old hound regains mobility after paralysis
15:00 – Ideal patient personalities and how treatment is tailored
16:00 – Future of rehab: Standard of care, post-surgical protocols, and integrative teams
17:30 – Custom rehab plans vs. one-size-fits-all approaches
19:00 – Addressing soft tissue complications post-surgery
20:00 – Imaging in rehab: MRI, ultrasound, and diagnostics as cornerstones
22:30 – Final thoughts: Importance of diagnostics and access to Dr. Broadhurst’s clinic
Notable Quotes
“Rehab isn’t just about recovery—it’s about restoring function and preventing future breakdown.” – Dr. Michelle Broadhurst
“In rehab, your hands are your best tool—but shockwave and EMTT have absolutely transformed how we treat neurological cases.” – Dr. Michelle Broadhurst
“Diagnostics are the cornerstone of any good potential outcome. The more we know, the better we can treat.” – Dr. Michelle Broadhurst
“We used to have these cookie-cutter rehab plans. Now, we’re understanding how dynamic recovery truly is—every case needs a tailored approach.” – Dr. Amy Armentrout
Valuable Takeaways & Resources
Key Concepts:
- Functional rehab is essential after injury or surgery to prevent compensatory issues.
- Prehab (rehab before surgery) helps shorten recovery times and improve outcomes.
- Neurological plasticity means animals can regain function even a year or more post-injury.
- Client education and compliance are vital for long-term success.
- Environmental modifications—grippy surfaces, trimmed nails, ramps—can make or break a recovery.
Modalities Highlighted:
- Shockwave Therapy: For tendons, ligaments, and arthritis
- EMTT (Extracorporeal Magnetic Transduction Therapy): Game-changer for neuro rehab
- Underwater treadmill: Reduces weight-bearing, retrains gait
- Manual therapy & chiropractic: Crucial hands-on components
- Laser & Teca Therapy: Reduce inflammation and promote tissue healing
Case Highlight:
A 17-year-old daschund with paralysis regained mobility, continence, and quality of life through a comprehensive rehab plan and committed owner involvement.
Tail End Tip:
Always image both sides. The “unaffected” side may surprise you. If you’ve got them on the table, take the extra shot.
Connect with Dr. Broadhurst
📱 Instagram / TikTok / Facebook: @rehab4pets
Animal Imaging Veterinary Radiology Specialists
(972) 869-2180
Facebook https://www.facebook.com/AnimalImaging/
6 episodes