Aquatic Therapy for Horses by a Vet – 2025 Guide to Benefits, Recovery & Research Gaps 💧🐴
In this article
Aquatic Therapy for Horses by a Vet – 2025 Guide to Benefits, Recovery & Research Gaps 💧🐴
By Dr Duncan Houston, BVSc
Introduction
Aquatic therapy has long been a staple in human and canine rehabilitation—but what about horses? In 2025, equine water treadmills and hydrotherapy pools are being used more frequently to improve joint mobility, enhance recovery, and build cardiovascular fitness. While anecdotal success is widespread, scientific research in horses is still emerging. This article explores the potential benefits, current limitations, and best practices for using aquatic therapy in equine rehabilitation programs.
What Is Aquatic Therapy for Horses? 🌊
- Therapeutic exercise using water resistance and buoyancy
- Typically includes:
- Water treadmills
- Swimming pools
- Cold or warm water soaks
- Used for both rehabilitation and conditioning in performance horses
Benefits of Water Therapy in Other Species 💪🐾
In Humans:
- Improved post-surgical recovery
- Reduces joint impact and pain
- Boosts cardiovascular endurance
In Dogs:
- Improved range of motion and muscle symmetry
- Faster recovery after cruciate ligament surgery
- Increased strength in both injured and uninjured limbs
Benefits in Horses (What We Know So Far) 🧠🐴
Though large-scale studies are limited, early research and clinical observations suggest:
- Increased cardiovascular fitness
- Reduced concussive forces on joints during rehab
- Potential for muscle development and topline strengthening
- Safe environment for controlled movement post-injury
Conditions Potentially Helped by Aquatic Therapy 🛠️
- Osteoarthritis (especially in hocks and stifles)
- Post-surgical rehab for tendon or ligament injuries
- Chronic back or SI pain
- Navicular syndrome or laminitis recovery
- General deconditioning or rehab after stall rest
Key Unknowns and Research Gaps ❓
- Optimal water depth for various conditions is unknown
- Duration and frequency of sessions not standardized
- Comparative studies lacking to confirm long-term efficacy
- Variables like horse conformation, injury type, and water temperature not yet fully understood
Real-World Use: What Vets and Trainers Are Seeing 🧑⚕️🏇
- Improved topline muscle tone in horses using water treadmills regularly
- Fewer setbacks or flare-ups after injury when aquatic therapy is part of the program
- Better mental focus and less stiffness on cold days post-aquatic sessions
How Aquatic Therapy Works 🔧
- Buoyancy reduces the load on joints and tendons
- Water resistance builds muscle without impact
- Encourages core engagement and symmetric movement
Risks & Considerations ⚠️
- Not all horses tolerate water environments well
- Careful monitoring needed to avoid overuse or mental stress
- Skin infections or hoof softening can occur with poor water management
- Not ideal for horses with certain back or neurological issues unless approved by a vet
Best Practices for Water Therapy in Horses 🧼💦
- Use only under veterinary supervision
- Start with short sessions (5–15 minutes) and build gradually
- Clean and dry hooves post-session
- Use facilities with temperature control and water quality management
Case Example: Dressage Mare Post-Hock Injection
- 11-year-old mare with chronic hock soreness
- Received joint injections, followed by water treadmill rehab 3x/week
- Improved flexion and topline strength noted by 4 weeks
- Returned to full work with less stiffness and improved symmetry
FAQs About Equine Aquatic Therapy
Q: Does my horse need to swim?
A: No. Most horses use a water treadmill, which provides buoyancy with controlled walking or trotting.
Q: How often should my horse do water rehab?
A: Depends on injury type, but most programs use 2–4 sessions per week.
Q: Is aquatic therapy just for injured horses?
A: No. It’s also used to cross-train athletes, reduce concussion during fitness work, or support weight loss.
Conclusion
In 2025, aquatic therapy stands as a promising tool in equine rehabilitation and conditioning. While the science is still catching up to its widespread use, early evidence and clinical success stories continue to grow. If your horse is recovering from an injury, experiencing arthritis, or simply needs low-impact fitness training, water therapy may be a valuable addition to your program.
Want help building a safe, science-based water rehab plan? Visit AskAVet.com or download our app 📱 to consult with Dr Duncan Houston for expert guidance on aquatic therapy and recovery. 🩺🐴
