What is Optimum Performance Training?
Optimum Performance Training is a comprehensive program based on current scientific research, traditionally applied to human athletes & now modified by Next Step for our canine & feline friends.  Our rehabilitation methods & techniques are evidence-based & yet individually-focused, with a “whole”-istic & positive approach.  The goals of the Next Step team are:

• to improve muscular flexibility

• to enhance cardiorespiratory efficiency for unrivaled endurance

• to promote core strength for balance, symmetry, & more efficient postures & movements

• to improve speed

• to enhance agility

• to promote strength & power

• to reduce pain & discomfort

• to accelerate healing & recovery from injury & surgery

• to return to play, work, & life

What services does Next Step provide?
Next Step Animal Rehabilitation & Fitness provides specialized rehabilitation programs focused on you & your pet’s individual needs.  The objective functional & gait analysis provided during the initial rehabilitation session allows us to help you, an integral member of the Next Step team, to set appropriate & reasonable goals for your pet, whether in preparation for a specific competitive event or trial or for return to his normal self, basking in your attention & living for his next walk.  We offer manual therapy services, providing soft tissue, joint, & spinal mobilization techniques for improved range of motion, alignment, & pain relief.  Next Step also provides comprehensive modalities, including therapeutic ultrasound, electrical stimulation, therapeutic laser, & thermo- & cryo-therapies.  Our aquatic therapy & fitness program is unrivaled in the United States with the recent addition of a SwimEx Current Resistance Pool to our established Westcoast Water Walker Underwater Treadmill.  Finally, the therapeutic exercise program, developed with you & your pet in mind, including a comprehensive home exercise program (our trademark “Game Plan”) helps to put it all together.

Is the Next Step team qualified to perform rehabilitation?
The physical therapists at Next Step are licensed in the state of Maryland & have completed rigorous post-graduate training in the latest animal rehabilitation & physical therapy techniques.  These therapists have a combined 28 years of experience in physical therapy & 12 years in animal rehabilitation.  A world-renowned instructor in animal rehabilitation, focusing on aquatic therapy & neuro-rehabilitation, our Director of Rehabilitation, Amie Lamoreaux Hesbach, will undoubtedly exceed your expectations.

What should I expect on my first visit to Next Step?
If possible, download & complete the admissions paperwork prior to your arrival at Next Step.  If this is not possible, the paperwork can be completed on your arrival.  You will be escorted to our consultation room & our Rehabilitation Assistant will gather information from you & your pet, taking vital signs, if necessary.  Your primary physical therapist will then review your pet’s history & your goals for seeking rehabilitation services at Next Step.  Often, the Next Step therapist will have consulted with your primary care or specialty veterinarian, even before meeting you & your pet for the first time.  Meanwhile, the therapist will perform her comprehensive objective functional & gait analysis, including measurement of range of motion, strength, & flexibility, among other physical assessments.  The physical therapist will coordinate with you to establish the rehabilitation “Game Plan,” including a home exercise program, if applicable.  The Next Step team always reviews this “Game Plan” with your primary care or specialty veterinarian following your first visit.

Do I need a referral from my veterinarian for rehabilitation?
Yes, rehabilitation services are provided at Next Step only upon referral from a veterinarian.  If you do not have a referral & are interested in rehabilitation at Next Step, just contact our office & we’ll help to coordinate this referral from your primary care veterinarian or the specialty veterinarian that you designate.