The Challenge:

Managing Progressive Neurological Decline

Degenerative myelopathy (DM) presents unique rehabilitation challenges that differ significantly from typical orthopedic conditions. This progressive spinal cord disease affects older dogs, typically after age 8, with onset beginning as subtle incoordination in the hind limbs and toe scuffing that progresses over 6 months to one year. Common breeds include German Shepherds, Corgis, and Boxers.

Unlike traditional rehabilitation, where strengthening is the primary focus, DM requires a fundamental shift in approach. The challenge lies not in building muscle strength, as the neural pathways are degenerating, but in maintaining function and quality of life as the disease progresses through its stages.

The Solution:

The Solution: AquaPaws Systems Enable Stage-Appropriate Therapy

Advanced aquatic therapy provides an ideal environment for DM patients through precise, adaptable protocols that match disease progression. The key therapeutic principle is “proximal stability for peripheral mobility.” When the trunk is stabilized, limb movement becomes more coordinated.

Benefits That Make a Difference:

• Dogs can walk at a safe, natural pace thanks to precise speed control that adjusts as the disease progresses
• Unsteady patients stay secure during exercise with advanced safety features designed for neurologically impaired dogs
• Therapy adapts to each dog’s abilities through variable water depth that provides just the right amount of support
• Dogs stay comfortable during longer sessions with temperature control systems that maintain optimal conditions

Stage-Appropriate Therapy Protocols:

Early Stage: Walking exercises with terrain variation, core strengthening through balance challenges, and three-leg standing exercises that shift weight to the hind limbs.

Middle Stage: Supported walking with harness systems and frequent rest periods. Controlled speed reduction helps force coordinated gait patterns while preventing falls.

Late Stage: Transition exercises using water’s buoyancy support and static strengthening that allows muscle contraction in a modified gravity environment. The “use what you got” philosophy maximizes remaining neural connections.

The controlled aquatic environment provides natural compression and stability while reducing gravitational stress on weakened muscles and uncoordinated limbs.