What is Hydrotherapy
The General Benefits of Hydrotherapy
There are many evidence-based benefits of using a hydrotherapy pool, including:
- Reduced pressure from joints, which improves range of motion
- Reduce inflammation due to the pressure of the water
- Help to increase blood circulation from the warm water in the pool
- Improve cardiovascular fitness
- Improve stamina and strength
What Conditions can Hydrotherapy Benefit?
There are many conditions that can benefit from hydrotherapy pool sessions.
Arthritis and Joint Pain
Hydrotherapy can improve mobility and help to lessen pain in dogs with arthritis. The water buoyancy supports the dog's weight, thus reducing pressure on the joints. The warmth of the water can help to reduce inflammation.
Obesity and Weight Loss
Hydrotherapy can form an important part in a weight loss programme and in helping to manage metabolic conditions. It is important to reduce obesity in dogs as it can lead to many other health conditions, e.g. arthritis, heart disease and metabolic abnormalities.
Post-Operative Recovery
The controlled hydrotherapy pool environment helps prevent muscle wastage and supports limb use. Hydrotherapy can help with recovery from various procedures such as joint replacement and ACL repair.
Other conditions also include:
- Hip dysplasia
- Elbow dysplasia
- Nerve or spinal damage
- Lack of mobility due to old age
