A Deep Dive - Hooves First
Aquatic Therapy for Horses: A Deep Dive into Benefits and Best Practices
For years, veterinarians have been using water-based therapies such as swimming and underwater treadmill work in equine rehabilitation and conditioning programs. Although historically relying on anecdotal evidence and personal experience, recent research has shed light on the advantages of aquatic therapy for horses.
Aquatic Exercise Basics
Swimming pools, underwater treadmills, cold-water spas, and even beaches are becoming increasingly popular as tools for conditioning and rehabilitating horses. Dr. Persephone McCrae, a specialist in water treadmill research, highlights the key benefit: reduced loading or concussive forces on the horse's musculoskeletal system. This is particularly beneficial for injuries often caused by repetitive overloading of the limbs.
Furthermore, water's density forces horses to work harder at slower speeds, leading to improved cardiovascular fitness and muscle development. McCrae also notes that the buoyancy of water promotes range of motion and flexibility in the limbs and back, which is crucial for preventing future injuries and facilitating rehabilitation.
While hydrotherapy offers numerous advantages, it's important to consider its limitations. Horses need time to adjust to aquatic exercise, and some may not adapt well. Additionally, hydrotherapy isn't suitable for all conditions, particularly those involving open wounds. Prolonged water exposure can also impact hoof health.
Research Findings and Applications
Recent studies have explored various aspects of aquatic exercise, including:
Biomechanics: Research has revealed how water level and treadmill speed influence limb loading, shock absorption, and joint range of motion. This information can guide the development of tailored rehabilitation programs for horses with specific injuries.
Rehabilitation: Studies have demonstrated the effectiveness of underwater treadmill work in managing osteoarthritis and aiding in recovery from surgeries, leading to improved joint function, postural stability, and faster return to racing.
Healthy Horses: Research has shown that water treadmill exercise can significantly improve cardiovascular fitness without the stress of traditional overground exercise. It also appears to have no negative impact on bone development in young horses when combined with adequate high-speed exercise.
Best Practices and Future Directions
Experts emphasize the importance of tailoring aquatic exercise programs to individual horses and their specific needs. Continued research is necessary to establish evidence-based protocols for rehabilitating specific orthopedic injuries.
Conclusion
Aquatic exercise provides valuable benefits for both healthy and rehabbing horses. With careful implementation and ongoing research, it will continue to play a crucial role in promoting equine health, performance, and overall well-being.
Read more from: https://thehorse.com/1110773/hydrotherapy-to-rehabilitate-and-condition-horses/
Contact EquiTread today to learn more about how our water therapy can help your horse overcome lameness and achieve optimal health and performance.
