Vincent Priessnitz was an Austrian farmer of the early 1800’s.
As a child, he observed animals— particularly deer— instinctively immersing their injured limbs into cold water, regularly returning to the pond until healed.
He later endured a number of injuries himself, including multiple broken ribs, from which he made a full recovery utilizing water therapy.
Ultimately, he treated thousands of humans and animals alike. Having no medical background, he established a renowned hydrotherapy facility, serving royalty and welcoming curious physicians to study the modality.
Although a notable figure in the history of water therapy, Priessnitz was not the first to implement this method. The use of hydrotherapy dates back to a variety of ancient civilizations, including those of Rome, China, Egypt, and Greece.
Barley’s instincts seemed to transpire after our 4 mile hike this weekend. Hydrotherapeutics keep his 9-year-old joints feeling well, as evidenced by his persisting spirit and zeal for the trails.
