Sprains & Strains
Seeing your pet in pain is never easy, especially when simple activities like standing, walking, or playing become uncomfortable. Strains and sprains can take time to heal, which can be frustrating for both pets and their owners. At Holistic Vet Care, our fully qualified vets use a gentle whole-body approach with holistic therapies to relieve pain, reduce stiffness, and support healing so your pet can return to moving comfortably again.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Book your free introductory consult
Not sure if we can help? Book a free 15min introductory consult with one of our holistic vets!
It’s a chance to get to know us, ask questions, and decide if you want to use our services with zero obligation.
Introductory consults can be in person or via Teams. Terms and Conditions apply.
What are strains and sprains?
Strains and sprains are common injuries in dogs, especially those who are active, working, or athletic. A strain occurs when muscle fibres are overstretched or torn due to overuse or sudden force. A sprain involves damage to the ligaments, which are the tissues that connect bones at joints. Both injuries result in pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
Iliopsoas strain
The iliopsoas muscle connects the back leg to the hip and is responsible for bringing the hindlimb forward. Straining this muscle is a common injury in athletic dogs and can often be subtle or mistaken for other hindlimb issues. The main sign to look out for is a shortened hindlimb stride length (one or both sides), especially during exercise.
Holistic treatment
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular veterinarian, as we do not offer surgical or conventional medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Traditional Chinese Medicine
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) can be a valuable part of supporting the health and ongoing wellbeing of pets with strains and sprains, alongside their conventional treatment plans.
With acupuncture and carefully selected Chinese herbal medicine, we aim to support pets with strains and sprains in the following ways:
- Support the body’s natural healing processes.
- Help promote blood circulation to the affected area.
- Help ease muscle spasms.
- Help reduce swelling.
- Help alleviate pain and inflammation.
Through these approaches, our qualified vets aim to support your pet throughout their treatment journey to help improve their comfort, mobility, and quality of life. Even if your pet is scheduled for surgery, we can help support pre-operative stability and comfort and assist with post-operative healing and long-term wellbeing.
Food therapy
Let food be thy medicine, and medicine be thy food.
From a Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) perspective, food therapy is foundational in addressing underlying “patterns of disharmony” (the way disease presents within the individual). We aim to support the body’s natural balance with tailored whole-food diets, rather than heavily processed pet foods which may contribute to inflammation in some pets.
Every pet is unique, however, and more specific dietary recommendations are tailored to your pet’s individual TCM diagnosis. Specific guidance can be discussed with one of our qualified vets during your consultation.
Laser therapy
Laser therapy is a gentle, non-invasive, supportive treatment that is particularly helpful for acute injuries such as strains and sprains. This therapy aims to reduce inflammation, help alleviate pain, and limit scar tissue formation. It also helps promote healing through increased blood flow and enhanced cellular energy production.
While not a cure, laser therapy can be a valuable part of a holistic care plan, helping to support your pet’s recovery time.
Shockwave therapy
Shockwave therapy is a gentle, non-invasive treatment option that can support recovery from sprains and strains. It aims to encourage the body’s natural repair processes by improving blood circulation, helping deliver oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues, promoting cell regeneration, and supporting collagen production. It may also help reduce pain and inflammation, improving your pet’s comfort and mobility.
Shockwave therapy is particularly effective in chronic cases where scar tissue has formed, causing stiffness and reducing range of motion. By breaking down this scar tissue, shockwave therapy helps improve mobility, comfort, and overall function.
Claiming insurance
Many pet insurance providers now offer cover for complementary and holistic therapies, including herbal medicine, acupuncture, and laser therapy. However, we recommend checking what is included in your plan as cover varies between policies. Please bear in mind that all consultations, treatments, and herbal prescriptions must be paid for at the time. We will then help you claim back from your insurer.
Frequently asked questions
What are common clinical signs of strains and sprains?
- Lameness: Difficulty bearing weight on the affected limb.
- Pain: Noticeable discomfort when the affected area is touched or moved.
- Swelling: Around the injured muscle or joint.
- Stiffness: Especially after periods of rest or inactivity.
- Reluctance to Exercise: Decreased willingness to engage in normal activities.
With iliopsoas strains, the main sign to look out for is shortened hindlimb stride length (one or both sides), especially during exercise.
How are strains and sprains typically treated by conventional vets?
Please be advised that conventional treatment is provided by your regular vet, as we do not offer surgical or medical interventions at Holistic Vet Care.
Management typically involves strict rest (2–4 weeks) and anti-inflammatory medication. Cold packs can help reduce swelling if your pet tolerates them. Many mild strains and sprains resolve with time and rest. Surgery is usually only considered for more severe ligament injuries, such as a cruciate ligament tear.
Must I leave my current vets to seek treatment at Holistic Vet Care?
No – we work alongside your conventional vet. We don’t replace conventional or emergency treatment. Our aim is to support your pet’s whole body and to help you feel informed, supported, and confident in their care.
Many complementary therapies are used alongside conventional treatments to improve patient welfare and can help improve prognosis. While adverse herbal-drug interactions (HDIs) can occur, they are uncommon when therapies are prescribed appropriately and monitored carefully.
When interactions do occur, the most common scenario is the herb enhancing the effect of the drug – which may allow conventional treatment plans to be adjusted by the prescribing vet.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Please don’t hesitate to get in touch to discuss whether holistic support may be appropriate for your pet.
Can I fully replace conventional treatment with holistic treatment?
No, holistic treatment should not replace conventional diagnosis or medical care.
At Holistic Vet Care, we work alongside your regular veterinarian. Conventional treatment is essential for diagnosing the condition, assessing severity, and managing emergencies or complications. Our role is to support your pet’s comfort, overall health, resilience, healing, and long-term wellbeing.
We always encourage open communication between you, your primary vet, and our team to ensure your pet receives safe, balanced, and well-coordinated care.
Do I need a referral from my vets?
Yes – your primary vet signs the “Vet Care Agreement” and sends your pet’s history to us. This ensures your pet receives safe, coordinated care before your first appointment.
How Long Does Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Take to Show Results?
The rate and degree of improvement depend on your pet and the severity of disease. Some animals show marked improvement in a matter of weeks, whilst others may need months. With TCM, improvement is steady and sustained, so patience is required.
Are There Any Risks with Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)?
TCM is generally safe when prescribed by a qualified person. Certain herbs may have side-effects and may have the ability to interact with conventional medications. Therefore, it is imperative that TCM is only used under professional guidance.
Will acupuncture hurt my pet?
It is unlikely. We find that most patients tolerate acupuncture very well, many end up falling asleep! Some points can be painful on some patients, but we take steps to minimise discomfort in these cases.
Can holistic treatments help older pets?
Absolutely! We see many geriatric patients, and they often demonstrate notable improvements (it may require several treatments before the benefits can be obviously appreciated). Some clients report that their older animals appear brighter, more comfortable, or more engaged again.
How do I know which holistic treatments are suitable for my pet?
Talk to your vet before trialling any new treatments.
Once registered with us, you can also ask our holistic vet.
Can I claim through my insurance?
Most insurance companies will cover/contribute towards our services. However, we always advise checking with your insurance company regarding your individual policy.
Get in touch
Where are we located?
Suite A, Blisworth Marina, Blisworth, Northampton, NN7 3FG.
We are located just outside of Blisworth, between Northampton and Towcester. Our clinic is at the Blisworth Marina, providing a peaceful, relaxing setting, with ample parking.
