Benefits of Hydrotherapy
The buoyancy of water allows exercise to be non-weight bearing thus removing stress on the dog’s joints. The warm water can also act as an analgesic (pain reliever). A dog gains sensory feedback from the viscosity of the water which promotes the use of an injured joint or muscle. Muscle strength and tendon/ligament tone can also be increased through the resistance provided by the surface tension of the water.
In summary, hydrotherapy can benefit dogs in several ways:
- Relieves pain, swelling and stiffness
- Improves joint mobilisation and increases the range of movement
- Improves muscle strength and maintenance
- Improves circulation
- Improves cardiovascular fitness
Which conditions benefit from hydrotherapy?
- Pre- and post-operative conditioning
- Osteoarthritis
- OCD – Osteochondritis Dissecan/Osteoarthritis of the shoulder
- Hip Dysplasia
- CDRM (Chronic Degenerative Radiculomyelopathy)
- Spinal injuries
- Recovery from multiple injuries including fractures and neurological damage
- Cruciate ligament injuries and post-operative recovery
- Luxating/sub-luxating patellas
- Relaxation of muscle spasms
- Obesity (weight loss in conjunction with diet)
- Paralysis
- ‘Stroke’ patients
- Mental wellbeing
