Hydrotherapy is derived from the Greek term that simply means 'water therapy'. Such therapies have been used by humans for centuries to assist with a whole range of ailments and improve health and well-being. We are only just starting to really understand how and why they are so beneficial and how they can be used for animals.
Exercising in warm water reduces inflammation, provides pain relief, improves blood supply and perfusion of tissues. With the addition of support via buoyancy of the water this can improve joint motion, speed up and improve the quality of surgical and muscular recovery and build muscle.
Exercising in warm water reduces inflammation, provides pain relief, improves blood supply and perfusion of tissues. With the addition of support via buoyancy of the water this can improve joint motion, speed up and improve the quality of surgical and muscular recovery and build muscle.
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Underwater Treadmill
The underwater treadmill is an extremely useful tool to assist with patient recovery and rehabilitation. The treadmill allows targeted areas to be either challenged or supported by either increasing or decreasing the water level. The use of the moving belt improves the patient's gait (foot pattern) which is invaluable for patient recovery from many conditions and in particular for spinal patients and those recovering from injury or surgery. Frequently, patients will take their very first steps with us in the treadmill which is a wonderful experience! The treadmill also allows the therapist to be in the water with the patient and provide hands-on assistance, support and massage if needed. Many patients that do not like water have no problem accepting the treadmill with gentle care and reassurance. |
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Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation uses a variety of equipment and physical hands-on techniques to build strength, improve flexibility and range of motion and increase fitness. It can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions including:
Hydrotherapy and the use of the underwater treadmill form part of a rehabilitation programme.
Rehabilitation uses a variety of equipment and physical hands-on techniques to build strength, improve flexibility and range of motion and increase fitness. It can be beneficial for a wide range of conditions including:
- Arthritis
- Hip dysplasia
- Post surgery including patella, cruciate, fractures, spinal and general soft tissue
- Conservative (non-surgical) management of cruciate ligament ruptures
- Spinal/neurological conditions
- Weight loss
- Sports medicine and fitness for a variety of disciplines including showing, obedience training, agility and flyball.
Hydrotherapy and the use of the underwater treadmill form part of a rehabilitation programme.
