VMPT

Academic program in the field of animal physiotherapy/physical therapy: Veterinary Physical Therapists (VMPT®) Course language: German Learning model: Blended learning (e-learning and face-to-face teaching) About the academic VMPT® course:The VMPT® course is primarily aimed at veterinary physiotherapists (TFA).In the VMPT® course, participants first refresh and deepen their existing knowledge of the anatomy of the musculoskeletal system, the physiology and pathophysiology of tissues, performance physiology and various diseases. Building on this, knowledge and practical skills are expanded and deepened under the guidance of experts. The focus is on the identification of musculoskeletal, neurological, cardiorespiratory and biomechanical dysfunctions as well as the application of physiotherapy/physical therapy techniques and measures required to successfully apply physiotherapy equipment and modalities, manual techniques and rehabilitative measures to patients. The individual condition of the patient (age, use, history, etc.) as well as animal welfare aspects are taken into account.VMPTs are valued as highly qualified members of the specialized veterinary team. They make an important contribution to the rehabilitation of animals after injuries or operations or diseases of the musculoskeletal system (e.g. in sporting dogs). Animal physiotherapy is an interesting and fulfilling field of work that has experienced a strong upswing in recent years. Areas of application VMPT practitioners apply the knowledge and skills they have acquired primarily in the following areas/with the following objectives:

• Performance enhancement
• Treatment of musculoskeletal injuries
• Post-operative rehabilitation for animals with orthopaedic or neurological conditions Improving the quality of life of patients with degenerative diseases such as osteoarthritis.

Admission requirements:

• Completed training as a TFA (or equivalent) Veterinarians
• Special admission applications can be submitted to the training committee of the academic VMPT® course

E-mail: office@vahl-academy.com Curriculum The curriculum was developed and continuously updated by the Vetmeduni Vienna in cooperation with the LMU Munich and Schloss-Seminar (today: VAHL). The VMPT academic program is a 164-hour continuing education program comprising 10 modules. It is conducted exclusively in German. It aims to train veterinary assistants (TFA) and veterinarians to become veterinary physical therapists. The program consists of theoretical basics that are taught online and practical content that is actively practiced during the classroom modules and focuses on the application of physiotherapeutic techniques in small animals (dog, cat). Theory The theoretical part of the program focuses on teaching the basics of the anatomy and physiology of the musculoskeletal system and the pathophysiology of selected diseases. The program also includes the basics of clinical diagnostics, comprehensive treatment planning, functional training, pain therapy and an introduction to biomechanical principles. Practice The practical elements of the VMPT academic program include hands-on training to teach participants a wide range of physiotherapy techniques that can be used in the rehabilitation of animals. These include manual therapy, passive and active movement therapy, proprioceptive and coordinative exercises, gait training and functional training. The program also includes an introduction to the use of physiotherapy equipment such as underwater treadmills, cryotherapy equipment and lasers. Graduation Upon successful completion of the academic program, participants will receive the VMPT® Certificate of Completion, which entitles them to use the title VMPT® and continue their career in this emerging field. Lecturers The VMPT academic program is led by experienced veterinarians and animal physiotherapists who have in-depth knowledge and extensive practical experience in animal physiotherapy. Lecturers include PD Dr. Barbara Bockstahler, FTA, CCRP, Dipl. ACVSMR, Dipl. ECVSMR (Vetmeduni Vienna, Austria), Dr. Barbara Esteve Ratsch (VAHL and Evidensia Norway), Dr. Kathleen Wittek and Dr. Bianca Reicher (both Vetmeduni Vienna, Austria), Dr. Beate Egner (VAHL in Babenhausen, Germany), Dr. Kai Rentmeister and Prof. Dr. Johann Maierl (LMU Munich, Germany). Gender note For reasons of better readability, the masculine form is used for personal names and personal nouns on this website.