Modular Hydrotherapy Jet Pool
The use of the jet pool provides an intense total body workout and in accordance with patient fitness levels, variably increased levels of exertion can be achieved using the air jets that provide variable resistance, controlled by the hydrotherapist. Swimming and playing in the pool can be extremely fun. Swimming is a non-weight bearing non-impact exercise which is beneficial for all patients. During swimming, compared to walking or trotting on land, there is an increased range of motion of the joints, including the stifle joint, in which there is increased flexion and total stifle range of motion. The aquatic environment provides a relatively weight less environment for the patient, facilitating movements promoting improved range of joint motion, balance and trunk strength, and aquatic exercise improves cardiovascular and muscular endurance and strength. Furthermore, exercise in water can reduce joint pain.
Several methods are employed to assist and facilitate therapeutic swimming for patients each method is individually selected depending on the patient’s condition and demeanour.
The collar and pole is useful for the confident swimmer. This allows the hydrotherapist to guide the patient and to control swimming activity from outside the pool.
The buoyancy aid (similar to a life jacket) is useful for infirm, geriatric or nervous dogs. The increase in buoyancy provided by the aid can help to reduce the patient workload. Buoyancy aids can also be helpful when introducing dogs to the water for the first time.
Front and rear buoyancy belts are a very good method for correcting a dogs swimming position, especially if the dog favours the use of one limb over the other.
A harness can be used for restraint in the pool. Harness use is generally more for experienced swimmers and the overweight dogs as they have their own buoyancy aid!
Large dogs and dogs that are reluctant to enter the pool via the ramp entry can get into the pool using the hoist and sling system. The hoist is also ideal for lifting dogs with neurological problems into the pool. When dogs are in the hydrotherapy pool, lowering or raising the hoist slightly can be helpful to modify the support given during swimming. The collar and pole or rear restrainers can be used in conjunction with the hoist and sling to hold the dog in a central position whilst swimming. In-pool assistance is always available in case a patient becomes distressed or is nervous, for example during a first swim. The dog should be wearing a buoyancy aid or a harness which allows you to guide the dog around the pool and correct their position. Another advantage of in-pool assistance is being able to feel whether the dog is using its limbs correctly.
The hydrotherapy pool is also available for dogs to ‘free swim.’ Free swimming is an option for dogs that will not swim when they are controlled using the harness or restraining ropes. Even free swimmers must wear a buoyancy aid or harness to allow safe assisted entry and exit from the pool. The disadvantages to free swimming are the lack of control we have during the session and rapid turning may be inappropriate for certain conditions.