Front Matter

Chapter 18 Rehabilitation for Geriatric Patients 473

muscle regeneration capability may result in
muscle injury before the muscle can adapt
(Gault & Willems, 2013). As a result, focusing
on concentric exercises may be more appropri­
ate for geriatric patients, especially in the
early  stages of geriatric rehabilitation therapy.
Senior dogs may need additional stabilization
and assistance during exercise sessions.
Using  a  well‐fitting harness can be beneficial
(Figure 18.12).
Rhythmic stabilization, joint compressions,
and gait patterning are important basic exer­
cises. Cookie stretches and spinal flexion can be
helpful in improving flexibility and comfort in
stiff patients (Figure 18.13). Extensor muscles
(the muscles of posture, the antigravity mus­

cles) often weaken in geriatric patients, result­

ing in a shuffling gait. Seated trunk extensions

help improve core muscle strength and flexibil­

ity and can be used to begin to position the

patient to correctly transition to a stand (Figure

18.14). Sit‐to‐stand exercises (similar to squats

for people) can be performed assisted and ini­

tially done with the patient sitting on a raised

surface when necessary. These exercises

improve thoracic limb extensor muscle strength.

They should be performed without the patient

stepping forward so that it does not pull itself

up into a stand by using the thoracic limbs.

Walking over cavaletti poles helps to

improve proprioception and coordination

(presuming the patient does not have visual

Figure 18.12 A geriatric patient wearing a harness during exercises to allow the therapist to easily provide stabilization
as needed.

Figure 18.13 Therapeutic exercises such as cookie stretches and spinal flexion can improve spinal flexibility and
balance.