My Dissertation Research
As with the majority of undergrauate degrees, to complete my BSc (Hons) in Veterinary Physiotherapy, I undertook a research project in my final year. When brainstorming ideas for this project, there were a few avenues that interested me, but I really wanted to choose something that I would refer back to time and time again in my future career. Considering the fact that 60% of equine lameness is related to osteoarthritis, this seemed like the perfect topic, and the title of my research project was;
‘Investigating the Perceptions of Veterinary Physiotherapy Treatment in the Management of Equine Osteoarthritis’
The purpose of my research project was to investigate the perceptions of horse owners on the use of veterinary physiotherapy for horses that receive intra-articular corticosteroid treatment (steroid injections) for diagnosed osteoarthritis.
I put together two online questionnaires, one targeted at horse owners and one at vet physios, and compiled the results and statistically analysed them. Some of my key findings were:
90% of horse owners employed a vet physio to treat their horse on a regular basis.
98% of horse owners believed that the main benefit of treatment was to maintain the soundness, comfort or performance level of their horse.
The most common treatment techniques were massage therapy, stretching and LASER therapy.
The most popular treatment frequency was every 6-12 weeks.
70% of practitioners made management recommendations to their clients.
A significant statistical association was found between the use of dynamic mobilisation exercises and owner opinion on the benefit of physio treatment.
After nearly a year of researching, writing, analysing and proofreading this research, I was thrilled to receive a First Class Honours! If you’re interested to find out more and read my research paper, it can be downloaded below.
Ellie x
Thank you to my gorgeous boy, Dexter, for not only being the inspiration for this project, but also for helping to keep me sane throughout!