Frequently Asked Questions

 Veterinary physiotherapy is a specialised form of physiotherapy designed to help animals recover from injury, surgery, or manage chronic conditions. It focuses on improving mobility, reducing pain, and enhancing quality of life through techniques such as manual therapy, laser therapy, hydrotherapy, and targeted exercises.

I'm Sarah Sojka, a physiotherapist with a human physio degree from Monash University and a Masters in Veterinary Physiotherapy from the University of Liverpool. I've been working in the veterinary industry for over 14 years, and that dual background in human and animal physiotherapy shapes everything I do. I understand how bodies move, how they compensate, and what good recovery actually looks like. 

I know that bringing your pet to see someone new can feel daunting, so I always take the time to let animals settle and feel comfortable before we get started. My dual background in human and veterinary physiotherapy gives me a thorough grounding in biomechanics, pain management, and rehabilitation, and over 14 years I've treated a wide range of orthopaedic and neurological conditions. I work alongside your veterinarian to build a treatment plan that's right for your pet specifically. You won't feel rushed, and neither will your animal. 

  I treat a wide range of conditions, including: 

• Orthopaedic conditions pre and post surgery, including cruciate surgeries (TPLO), patella luxation, spinal surgery, and hip replacements
• Conservative management of conditions such as hip and elbow dysplasia, arthritis, patella luxation, and cruciate ligament injuries
• Neurological conditions including intervertebral disc disease (IVDD) and degenerative myelopathy
• Back and neck pain
• Sports injuries and soft tissue problems in active or working dogs
• Mobility issues in senior pets
• General wellness assessments

Each session begins with a thorough assessment of your pet's movement, posture, and areas of discomfort. Treatment is then tailored to their needs and may include hands-on techniques such as massage, stretching, or joint mobilisation, as well as therapies like Class 4 laser, hydrotherapy, and therapeutic exercises. No two sessions are identical because no two patients are identical. 

This depends on the nature and severity of your pet's condition. Acute injuries or post-surgical rehabilitation often require several sessions over a few weeks, while chronic or degenerative conditions may benefit from ongoing physiotherapy to manage pain and maintain mobility. I'll give you a realistic picture of what to expect at your first appointment. 

 A referral isn't always required, though it's helpful to have a veterinary diagnosis before starting physiotherapy. I work closely with vets to make sure treatment complements your pet's overall care, particularly following surgery or with more complex conditions. 

I'm based in Brighton, Melbourne, at 854 Hampton Street. I see patients from across the Bayside area including Brighton, Hampton, Bentleigh, Sandringham, Elwood and surrounding suburbs. If you're unsure whether I cover your area, feel free to get in touch.