TITLE: The Dynamic Canine Hip: Advanced Assessment, Treatment, and Rehabilitation

DATE/TIME: Tues. April 13th, 8:30am - 6:30pm (all day lab)

LAB RATING: Advanced

MAX PARTICIPANTS: 20 seats; 17 seats remaining

CONTACT HOURS: 8.0 CE credits; RACE approval pending

DESCRIPTION:

This intensive workshop provides a comprehensive approach to the assessment, treatment and rehabilitation of the canine hip. Participants will explore advanced hip anatomy, biomechanics, common and complex musculoskeletal conditions, soft tissue injuries, joint dysfunctions and both conservative and surgical management. Emphasis will be placed on developing practical clinical skills, including detailed musculoskeletal assessment, joint mobilisations, manual therapy, muscle and tendon techniques, and targeted therapeutic exercise. The important relationship between the hip, pelvis, sacroiliac joint and lumbar spine will be explored, including the identification and management of compensatory dysfunctions. Examination of advanced rehabilitation strategies, progressive strengthening, joint stability, proprioception and functional retraining, alongside pre- and post-operative rehabilitation principles for a range of surgical procedures. Through extensive practical application and clinical reasoning, this workshop will equip participants with advanced techniques and rehabilitation strategies to optimise mobility, strength, biomechanics and functional recovery in canine patients.

Learning Objectives:

Evaluate canine hip biomechanics and dysfunction, including the effects of hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, joint instability and compensatory changes involving the pelvis and lumbar spine.
Perform a comprehensive clinical assessment of the canine hip, incorporating anatomical palpation, gait analysis, range-of-motion testing, joint stability assessment, specific special hip testing, and identification of muscular and joint restrictions.
Demonstrate advanced hands-on treatment techniques, including hip joint mobilisations, accessory glides, soft tissue mobilisation, advanced specialised massage techniques and specific muscle stretching techniques.
Develop and progress targeted therapeutic exercise programmes to improve hip mobility, muscle strength, joint stability, proprioception, core control and functional movement.
Apply advanced rehabilitation principles to conservative and post-surgical hip conditions, including hip dysplasia, osteoarthritis, FHO and THR, with appropriate treatment progression and consideration of surgical precautions.

Cancellation & Registration Transfer Policy

We understand that plans can change. If you need to cancel or transfer your STAAR Canine 2027 registration, please complete the Cancellation & Registration Transfer Policy.

Advanced Assessment, Treatment, and Rehab of the Hip

$984.00

DAY / TIME

Elena Saltis, BSc, NZPT, NZVAPT, CCRT

Elena graduated from The Ohio State University College of Medicine with a degree in Physical Therapy. She went on to establish PhysiotherapyNZ Limited, a successful multi-clinic physiotherapy practice in the South Island of New Zealand.

In 2009, Elena earned her postgraduate qualification as a Certified Canine Rehabilitation Therapist (CCRT) through the Canine Rehabilitation Institute (CRI). She continued to expand her expertise through extensive advanced postgraduate education and training, and subsequently became an instructor for CRI.

Combining her background in human physiotherapy with her passion for animal rehabilitation, Elena founded Animal PhysioNZ Limited, a multi-clinic animal physiotherapy and rehabilitation practice in New Zealand. She also established Animal Orthopaedics Surgery, comprising two specialist veterinary orthopaedic surgical clinics.

An experienced international educator and speaker, Elena has taught and presented extensively around the world, delivering advanced courses, practical workshops, clinical internships and conference presentations. She is passionate about advancing the field of animal rehabilitation and sharing her clinical knowledge, expertise and hands-on skills with fellow professionals.

Beyond her clinical and educational work, Elena is deeply committed to animal welfare and philanthropy. She established a rehabilitation clinic within a Galgo rescue sanctuary in Spain, providing specialised rehabilitation care to rescued dogs. She also founded Street Tails, a charitable initiative dedicated to providing veterinary care, essential supplies and ongoing support for the pets of people experiencing homelessness. Elena is also involved in the Canine NeuroPark Charity Trust, a specialised canine rehabilitation park.

Throughout her career, Elena has been driven by a commitment to improving the quality of life of animals, advancing clinical standards and inspiring the next generation of animal rehabilitation professionals. Her enthusiasm for teaching, sharing knowledge and promoting excellence in rehabilitation remains at the heart of her work.

Advanced Assessment, Treatment, and Rehab of the Hip

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