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Wilhemina (Mina)is 8 years old, she had an operation to correct disc extrusion in the
thoracolumbar area of her spine. She was originally paraplegic, unable to use her hind legs but now she runs up
the drive for her hydrotherapy and continues to improve.
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- Warm muscles stretch more easily therefore it is important that the pool water is warm
- Because swimming is a non-weight bearing exercise it allows a greater range of movement (rom)
- The hydrostatic pressure of water at a depth of 3 feet is 17 pounds per square inch. This pressure
assists circulation and ensures a good cardio-vascular workout while swimming
- It is harder to move a mass through water than air so the muscles have to work harder when swimming
than walking. This helps the muscles to develop more quickly.
- Hydrostatic pressure also aids dispersion of oedema (swelling)
- Water provides more resistance than air and supports unstable or healing structures
- Endorphins (the feel-good factor) are released during exercise and these promote natural pain relief
as well as making your dog feel great.
- Exercise in water allows full active and passive range of movement in joints
- Water allows gradual advancement towards strengthening exercise on land
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