A new autonomous water treadmill has emerged in Siberia to support early rehabilitation after cardiovascular or central nervous system conditions, injuries, and surgeries through hydrotherapy. Reports from the Siberian Center for Biotechnological Science and Education confirm the development and its practical use.
The device operates inside a compact pool or capsule. A pump and filtration system supply clean water, while a dedicated reservoir ensures continuous operation. The track offers adjustable speeds from 0.5 to 16 km/h, and the water temperature can be raised to as high as 40°C to support therapeutic warming and muscle relaxation.
The system handles a maximum water depth of 135 cm and allows changes in the incline angle along with removable guardrails for flexibility and safety. A key advantage is that the stand-alone water treadmill reduces joint and muscle load, facilitating quicker recovery without overloading the body.
Developers expect this device to stand apart from international models by supporting greater patient weight limits (up to 200 kg, compared with 150 kg in some alternatives). The design also combines capabilities suitable for both children and adults in a single unit and includes an option to locate a physician within the capsule if needed. The unit can be integrated into a standard pool when required.
Experts recommend the track for early rehabilitation of musculoskeletal injuries, cardiovascular and central nervous system conditions, and related comorbidities. It is also seen as a useful tool for maintaining fitness in older adults recovering from hip fractures, heart events, or strokes. Beyond healthcare, the technology has potential applications in high-performance sports recovery and athletic rehabilitation.
Center officials note that no foreign equivalents are currently available for Russia, and they emphasize that the device will rely on fully domestically produced components and software that meticulously records patient data for ongoing monitoring and assessment.
In related outcomes, recent reports highlight notable weight loss milestones associated with related health programs, underscoring the broader potential of aquatic-based rehabilitation approaches among diverse populations.