Tuxie in the underwater treadmill

Benefits of HydroTreadmill

Water has certain characteristics that are helpful for the rehabilitation of land animals, including humans! The property of water reduces the amount of weight-bearing necessary and can thus help with the rehabilitation of weak muscles and alleviate joint pain while allowing the correct use of muscles. We have found this modality to be particularly helpful for patients with hyperextension injuries or fractures or with instability weightbearing. 

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The adjustable water level can provide different level of resistance that can be increased or decreased manually, allowing your dog to move with a little or more effort as they gait in the underwater treadmill. The partially supported buoyancy also takes the weight of their torso off of the elbows, hips, and ankles.

Additionally, this pressure also acts on body extremities e.g. limbs to oppose the tendency of blood and fluid to pool and stagnate in these areas, hence stimulating circulation in the patient’s body.

Most dogs across all life stages and conditions can be good candidates for hydrotreadmill due to the flexibility ability to adjust the height or water level as well as the speed of gaiting according to the animal's physical ability. It can also be used overall for improving fitness, achieve weight loss, or just to improve cardiovascular and stamina for older dogs in a much safer, controlled environment. 

Hydrotherapy has specific therapeutic effects on body tissues, including the following:​