The underwater treadmill (UWTM) uses the warmth, buoyancy, and resistance of water to help with strengthening, conditioning, and neuromuscular retraining. At the ART of Healing we have a top of the line UWTM that is used to treat conditions such as arthritis, neurologic weakness or dysfunction, and post-operative cases such as TPLO repair, FHO and IVDD. Hydrotherapy is also beneficial as part of a weight loss or sports conditioning plan.
What is an UWTM?
An underwater treadmill, also known as hydrotherapy, is a specialized device used in veterinary rehabilitation that allows dogs, cats, and other companion pets to exercise while walking or running on a moving belt submerged in water. The water’s buoyancy reduces the impact on joints, provides resistance for muscle strengthening, and promotes low-impact cardiovascular exercise.
What are the benefits of hydrotherapy?
- Water can support around 65% of the body weight, which relieves pressure on joints or injured limbs making it an excellent choice for pets with arthritis, after orthopedic surgery, recovering from sports-related injuries, or for those aiming for weight loss.
- The hydrostatic pressure exerted by the water can reduce swelling, inflammation, and pain, leading to faster healing.
- The warmth of the water can help relax muscles, improving their flexibility and range of motion.
- Water exercises are a gentle exercise and can enhance body awareness, particularly beneficial for pets with neurological conditions, spinal injuries, or older pets.
- Water resistance serves as an effective training method for canine athletes participating in agility, flyball, or other canine sports, providing an additional challenge.
How long does a hydrotherapy session last?
The duration of a hydrotherapy session can vary depending on the animal’s condition, fitness level, and therapy goals. Generally, a session can last anywhere from 5 to 30 minutes. The frequency and duration of sessions will be determined by the veterinarian based on the individual needs of the animal.
How does it help my pet after surgery?
Hydrotherapy plays a crucial role in post-surgical recovery for animals. It helps reduce swelling and inflammation, improves circulation to promote tissue healing, prevents muscle atrophy, and provides a controlled environment for gentle exercise. Hydrotherapy can help pets regain strength, range of motion, and function after orthopedic procedures or spinal surgeries.
When can my pet start hydrotherapy?
Typically most pets start hydrotherapy 2 weeks postoperatively but this will be determined on an individual basis by the surgeon and veterinarian. An initial consultation can be set up at the 2 week surgical recheck to determine if hydrotherapy along with other rehabilitation therapies will benefit your pet in their recovery.