amberco canine hydrotherapy
The word hydrotherapy is derived from the Greek words hydor (water) and therapeia (healing), its history as a method used in physical medicine can be traced back many thousands of years.
Hydrotherapy can be used in the treatment of arthritis, orthopaedic conditions, muscle, ligament and many other types of injury. It can also help with general convalescence, obesity and fitness training.
It's particular value comes about because of the effects of the warmth and pressure of the water, and the buoyancy provided. Some of the main benefits afforded by hydrotherapy treatment are :-
Relief
of pain, swelling & stiffness
Promotion
of relaxation
Joint
mobilisation
Muscle
strengthening, maintenance and restoration
Increase
in the range of motion of affected joints
Improved
circulation
Cardiovascular fitness (heart & lungs)
The encompassing warmth of the water will relax muscles by initiating an expansion of surface blood vessels and increasing the skin temperature, which can bring about a decrease in pain & muscle spasm. A decreased range of motion can often be due to pain or swelling, or stiffness. Stiffness can be eased as the warmth of the water causes blood vessels to expand.
Hydrostatic pressure
applied by the water can assist in reducing swelling by causing a body fluid
movement away from the affected area instead of to it. This is increased with exercising the limb to enhance the circulation.
Buoyancy decreases the loading onto weight bearing joints, which helps to reduce
pain and can allow easier movement and exercise. The buoyancy of the water
will help move the stiff joint into a further range of movement with minimal
increase in pain.
To discuss whether your dog would benefit from hydrotherapy
contact Alison or Rod
