What is Hydrotherapy and how can it help

The word hydrotherapy is derived from the Greek word for ‘water healing’.

Hydrotherapy is controlled exercise in water, it is either non weight bearing or can be
controlled weight bearing, it means that there is zero or low impact on the body and
the buoyant effect of the water decreases the load on weight bearing joints, therefore
reducing pain and allowing easier movement and exercise.
To be therapeutic the water is constantly heated to around 30 degrees Celsius, this
expands blood vessels and increases skin temperature hence relaxing muscles and
decreasing pain, swelling and stiffness. Hydrostatic pressure helps to relieve swelling by
causing body fluid to move away from an affected area. The water is suitably sanitized for
health and hygiene of both dog and therapist.

Benefits of Hydrotherapy include;

•  Relief from pain
• Reduction of swelling and stiffness
•  Circulatory benefits
•  Improved cardiovascular fitness
•  Muscle strengthening
•  Improved joint mobilisation (Range of movement)
• Increased mental stimulation
•  Improved gait pattern.

Disorders that we can assist with Hydrotherapy include;

• Arthritic conditions
•  Spinal conditions
• Wobblers
•  Elbow Dysplasia
•  CDRM
• Cruciate Ruptures. Pre and post surgery
•  Hip Dysplasia
•  Poor ROM