Hydrotherapy after knee surgery — what to expect from rehabilitation
An underwater treadmill is not just a trend. We explain why hydrotherapy is a key part of recovery after orthopaedic surgery.
After knee surgery — for example TTA, TTT, CBLO, CWO or TPLO for a ruptured cranial cruciate ligament, or a patella correction — rehabilitation is as important as the operation itself. One of the most effective methods is hydrotherapy on an underwater treadmill.
Why water?
Water reduces the load on the joints through buoyancy — the animal can exercise its muscles without carrying its full body weight. That makes it possible to start movement rehabilitation earlier, which is key to proper healing.
What happens during a session
Each session lasts 20–40 minutes depending on the patient's condition. The physiotherapist watches the gait and the load on the limb and adjusts the belt speed and water level. Manual therapy and exercises on firm ground are part of it too.
How many sessions are needed?
A standard rehabilitation plan after knee surgery involves 8–12 sessions spread over 6–8 weeks. The plan is always individual and tailored to the particular patient.
Our rehabilitation centre on the 2nd floor is fully equipped from A to Z and successfully run by certified physiotherapist Petra Menclová, CertCAAPR, in collaboration and feedback with orthopaedic surgeon MVDr. Kapalko, AdvCertSAOS, an internationally certified advanced orthopaedic specialist.
