Canine hydrotherapy 

Buoyancy is the upwards thrust exerted by the water, opposite to gravity. This helps to reduce the loading of the joints, reduces the level of weight bearing and decreases the vertical ground reaction forces which has been found to decrease by 62% when immersed in water to the level of the hip joint. This then improves ambulation and spinal posture, encourages active use of the joints and greater range of motion without putting the joint under strain.

Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by the water onto the body, this increases as you immerse deeper into the water. This helps to decreases oedema and swelling, increases circulation and venous return, increases lymphatic circulation and increases sensory stimulation which decreases nociceptive hypersensitivity by blocking pain signals through the pain gate theory.

Viscosity is defined as ‘the state of being thick, sticky, and semi-fluid in consistency, due to internal friction’. The viscosity of water is higher than that of air, increasing the resistance within the water and requires greater exertion than on land, increasing muscle strength and cardiovascular fitness. It also increases stability of the joints, sensory perception and therefore improving proprioception, balance and confidence. Particularly important for neurological patients or post-operative patients where proprioception is impaired (due to the invasive nature of the surgical procedure and as well as secondary muscle weakness / atrophy).

Temperature of the pool water is generally set between 28-30 degrees. This provides a warm and comforting environment for the dog, helping to relieve muscle spasm and decrease pain through the stimulation of sensory fibres inhibiting the transmission of pain signals. This improves the dogs mental wellbeing as well as helping them feel more comfortable in the water allowing a greater range of motion and fluidity of movement.