Warm Compress: Apply a warm compress to the inside of your pet’s knee for 10-15 minutes prior to passive range of motion exercises.  You may accomplish this by taking a damp wash cloth and placing it in the microwave.   Place the wash cloth on your wrist first to test the temperature.  If it is too hot for you it is too hot for your pet!

Passive Range of Motion (PROM): 15-20 repetitions need to be done per session. This exercise will help to improve your pet’s range of motion enhance blood and lymphatic flow, and improve joint fluid production and uptake of joint fluid nutrients.  Gently straighten your pet’s leg to the point of resistance. Do not extend to the point of being painful, if your pet displays signs of pain, slightly decrease the degree to which you bend the leg. Hold extended for 10 seconds and release. Bring the knee to a bent angle and hold for 10 seconds. The motion should seem like your pet is riding a bike.

Cryotherapy: Apply soft ice packs (wrapped in a hand towel) to the inside of your pet’s knee for 10-15 minutes after passive range of motion exercises.