TPLO Physical Therapy: Justified | Webinar with Dr. Carrie Adrian

If you work with dogs recovering from TPLO surgery, this webinar is worth your time. TPLO Physical Therapy: Justified features Dr. Carrie Adrian, a veterinary rehabilitation therapist with more than 25 years of clinical experience, a doctorate in canine biomechanics from Colorado State University, and a background leading rehabilitation programs at major veterinary hospital systems. Dr. Adrian walks through the evidence behind post-operative physical therapy for cranial cruciate ligament repair, explaining not just what to do, but why each intervention is warranted at each stage of healing.

The webinar covers a complete post-TPLO care map organized around five core principles: reducing effusion and pain, neuromuscular re-education, restoring full range of motion, normalizing proprioception and gait mechanics, and rebuilding strength for return to activity. Dr. Adrian addresses common questions about timing, tissue healing windows, and how to communicate the value of physical therapy to surgeons who may be skeptical. She also explains when the underwater treadmill enters the recovery process, why she prefers it over pool swimming for post-TPLO patients, and how to introduce animals to hydrotherapy in a way that builds comfort and trust.

Aquatic therapy plays a specific and well-reasoned role in Dr. Adrian’s recovery approach. Beginning at the four-week mark, the underwater treadmill allows for controlled, weight-bearing movement that supports bone remodeling without overloading healing tissue. Adjustable water depth, precise speed control, and a contained environment give therapists the ability to progress each patient based on individual response. Dr. Adrian describes outcomes of 80 to 90 percent healing by the eight-week post-operative mark for patients following this structured approach. Whether you are a veterinary physical therapist, a canine rehabilitation professional, or a clinic considering adding hydrotherapy equipment, this session offers practical, evidence-based guidance you can apply directly to patient care.