Equine Spa Hydrotherapy
How it works
Equine Spa hydrotherapy relies on four basic factors: temperature, salt concentration, depth of water and aeration.
1. Temperature
The application of cold triggers three basic reactions.
First, at a cellular level, the metabolic response of the cells is reduced, so the cells need less oxygen to function and thereby suffer less hypoxic injury.
Second, the permeability of the blood vessel walls is decreased, thus reducing the amount of fluid that accumulates in the injured area.
And third, the cold numbs the area to a certain degree, acting as a topical analgesic.
One of the best things about cold is that it does not override the beneficial effects of the healing process. Since the application of cold therapy should never be overdone, especially with ice, as tissue damage can occur, Therapeutic Advantage’s treatments are controlled, thereby always offering the optimum conditions for your horse.
2. Salt Concentration
The salt concentration of the water has a positive impact on the healing process. Higher salt concentration has a greater drawing effect, thereby influencing the dispersal of fluids accumulated around the injury.
Additionally, the proportion of the various salts we use has been found to influence the resolution of the injury.
3. Depth of Water
The greater the depth of the water, the greater the physical pressure exerted on the tissues which, again, aids in the dispersal of accumulated fluids.
4. Aeration
Aeration of the water has a two fold effect: the dissolved oxygen level of the water is increased and the soft tissue is subjected to a gentle massaging action.
The increased oxygen levels aid the healing process much as hyperbaric chambers do for humans, while the massaging effect influences dispersal of fluids.
In addition, horses tend to relax more than in still cold water, as is evidenced by their reduced heart rates.
See also the Why Hydrotherapy Works section to complete the picture.