Assessment of New Technology

Hydrotherapy has a great deal of benefits, to its name.  For a great deal of equine injuries, hydrotherapy can really help the time of the healing process increase.  It can be more effective than even the most advanced of our lotions, medicines, or electronic gadgets. Hydrotherapeutic treadmill systems consist of, well a treadmill, whirlpool, and swimming pool.  It is designed for therapeutic strengthening, healing, conditioning and training of any type of horse.  Hence the name, Equine Hydrotherapy. Unlike the traditional method of equine swimming pool therapy, the horse is exercising using its natural gait, in a controlled environment, whilst exercising the same muscles that are used in on land training.  The “water treadmill” also maintains and enhances the conditioning and training of horses in a safe environment.  Most treadmills are composed of about 20 Jacuzzi jets, putting 5 on each leg.  They also all have a manually controlled water temperature system, so that you can tighten their ligaments with cold water, or loosen them with warm.  The buoyancy in the water supports the horse’s body, while still allowing enough compression, and pressure to build up bone density and strength in the muscles. In addition to building strength, this machine helps to maintain their cardiovascular fitness, and they are kept interested with the concept of this new activity.  Some racehorses have even been known to have faster running times after undergoing hydrotherapy. This is just one example of success. Horses that specialize in anywhere from reining to dressage have had great benefits from therapeutic conditioning.