Benefits of Hydrotherapy

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• Water's buoyancy reduces weight-bearing by up to 60%, allowing safe movement with less stress on joints

• Hydrostatic pressure provides natural compression, reducing swelling and improving circulation

• Water resistance strengthens muscles without excessive joint loading

• Adjustable water levels allow progressive loading as healing occurs

 

Therapeutic Applications:

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Post-Surgery Recovery

Controlled environment for rebuilding muscle

Earlier initiation of movement compared to land-based therapy

Reduces risk of complications from immobility

Helps prevent muscle atrophy

Neurological Conditions

Water support helps with balance and coordination

Promotes proper gait patterns

Provides sensory input through water pressure

Helps retrain proper movement patterns

Weight Management

Higher calorie burn than land exercise

Reduced impact on joints

More comfortable exercise for overweight dogs

Allows longer workout sessions

Arthritis Management

Warm water helps relax muscles

Reduced joint loading while maintaining movement

Improves range of motion

Strengthens supporting muscles

Athletic Conditioning

Builds endurance

Strengthens core muscles

Improves proprioception

Enhances cardiovascular fitness

 

Specific Advantages:

Adjustable speed and water depth for customized treatment

Safe environment for controlled exercise

Reduces fear and anxiety in injured dogs

Allows targeting of specific muscle groups

Promotes symmetric muscle development

Can identify subtle gait abnormalities through water resistance

 

Clinical Benefits:

Faster recovery times compared to traditional therapy

Better outcomes in post-surgical cases

More consistent gait improvement

Earlier return to function

Reduced pain medication needs