Hydrotherapy For Dogs With Hip Dysplasia

Hydrotherapy helps with dogs who have hip dysplasia by using the controlled aquatic exercise to build weakened muscle in the hind legs without having to put any pressure on them.

Hydrotherapy for dogs with hip dysplasia.

Consider hydrotherapy for the dog with hip dysplasia hydrotherapy is when a hydrotherapist swims the dog in a pool or walks them on an underwater treadmill. Hydrotherapy can deliver excellent results for dogs with hip dysplasia. An underwater treadmill is a treadmill with sides that can be filled up with water to the required level to becoming weight bearing so the dog s limbs can go through the full range of motion without the added stress of weight on the joints. The warm water helps reduce joint swelling another benefit.

Hydrotherapy in particular the underwater treadmill can be a useful tool for strengthening specific muscles and improving gait patterns. Lilly started to attend bluewaters swim centre for dogs in july 2018. Lilly is a rescue dog brought over from romania who was displaying signs of pain and general stiffness through her back legs. Active or stabilizing exercises.

The buoyancy of the water provides support to the body which in turn reduces the load on the affected joints whilst exercising the necessary muscles. Water allows the full body weight to be supported when submerged reducing stress on the joints and creating a safer recovery environment. Hydrotherapy consists of a large tank with a treadmill on the base. It is also used as a conservative intervention to best avoid a surgical operation.

This therapy involves the use of an underwater treadmill or exercises in a swimming pool. Hydrotherapy relies on buoyancy resistance viscosity hydrostatic pressure and other attributes of water to allow patients to move their joints. Once a diagnosis of hip dysplasia had been made after she d been x rayed lilly s owners were advised by their vet to try hydrotherapy sessions. It encourages joint mobility endurance and cardiovascular fitness that maintains the health of the cartilage around the joints.

Hydrotherapy may be especially beneficial for dogs who suffer from arthritis due to old age. However they may also be good for dogs which have undergone surgery and need rehabilitation for their hip. Stabilizing exercises are good both for a dog with hip dysplasia which cannot take long walks.