Underwater Treadmill Therapy

What is Underwater Treadmill Therapy?

Our Underwater Treadmill is large chamber with a moving floor and adjustable water level. The patient enters the treadmill through a door while the chamber is empty. The door is closed, and warm water is pumped in to the appropriate height, then the treadmill is started and the patient walks through the water. The patient can be observed through the clear sides and door of the treadmill. As the patient builds strength, optional resistance jets can be turned on to increase the intensity of the exercise. The water supports the patient, and puts minimal stress on the joints. This reduces pain and discomfort allowing the patient to strengthen muscles, develop coordination, and build endurance.

Who can benefit from Underwater Treadmill Therapy?

Dogs with orthopedic or neurologic injuries that decrease their ability to walk on land benefit greatly from use of the Underwater Treadmill. The intensity and challenge of treadmill work can be varied to provide exercise appropriate for a wide variety of patients, from the weakest of debilitated geriatric patients to canine athletes training for competition.

How often should it be done?

Frequency of treatment depends on the condition being treated and the desired outcome. Muscle mass and strength are built with more frequent treatment (2-3 times weekly) while coordination and patterning necessary for neurologic rehabilitation often respond better to weekly treatment.

Are there any side effects?

Underwater Treadmill work, like any other exercise can cause fatigue and muscle soreness. A treadmill session is overall safer and gentler than walking on land, but can be challenging and stressful for severely debilitated patients. Dogs with underlying medical conditions such as heart or lung disease should be monitored closely while working on the treadmill.