An Introduction to Aquatic Therapy and its Benefits
Aquatic therapy is a proven treatment method used by specialized physical therapists.
Water is essential for survival and incredibly benefits the mind and body. Furthermore, water has various valuable characteristics and healing properties, especially helpful for people suffering from injuries and illnesses. Aquatic therapy is a proven treatment method used by specialized physical therapists to relax and heal patients of all ages, fitness levels, and medical histories suffering from different medical conditions.
What is aquatic therapy?
Aquatic therapy, also known as pool therapy, is a form of physical therapy recognized by the American Physical Therapy Association. It is performed in a temperature-controlled pool for relaxation, rehabilitation, fitness, or other therapeutic purposes. It uses the water's resistance, hydrostatic pressure, and buoyancy to address musculoskeletal and neuromuscular disorders. This treatment method of water exercise has become immensely popular as an alternative to traditional land-based therapy.
A physical therapist first evaluates the patient's condition to create a personalized treatment plan for achieving specific physical and functional goals. Then, the physical therapist uses traditional practices in an aquatic environment to improve strength and movement range and alleviate pain and discomfort.
Conditions where aqua therapy is a helpful treatment option
Physical therapists use aquatic physical therapy to treat a wide range of medical conditions, including:
Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
Autism
Cerebral palsy
Depression
Chronic pain
Balance disorders
Stroke
Spinal cord injury
Tendonitis
Muscle spasms
Circulation issues
Sports and car injuries
Post-surgery rehabilitation
Brain injury
Scoliosis
Parkinson's disease
Multiple sclerosis
Neuromuscular diseases
Low weight-bearing tolerance
Benefits of aquatic therapy
Aquatic therapy is highly beneficial, safe, and easy to perform for injured or disabled people struggling with traditional physiotherapy due to weakness, balance issues, persistent pain, weight problem, or other restrictions. Some valuable benefits of aquatic therapy include:
The water's buoyancy aids in floatation as it reduces the effects of gravity. It lowers the pressure on muscles and joints and helps patients move without difficulty. It is especially beneficial for people suffering from severe arthritis and obesity.
Water provides support and stability due to hydrostatic pressure. It allows people with balance issues exercise without the fear of falling.
Alleviates pain
Strengthens muscles and accelerates the rehabilitation progression
Improves circulation
Relaxes and soothes muscles, reduces stress, and rebuilds muscle memory
Water provides a more positive and enjoyable environment that promotes healing and recovery.
Improves joint flexibility, mobility, and range of motion
Who should not participate in aquatic therapy?
Although beneficial, aquatic therapy is not for everyone. It is not considered a suitable option and can be risky in certain conditions such as:
High temperature
Chlorine allergy
Uncontrolled diabetes, asthma, or epilepsy
An open wound or skin infection
Hydrophobia
Pregnancy complications
Difficulty in breathing
Cardiac diseases
Explore aquatic therapy
Aquatic therapy can help achieve a wide range of health goals. If one suffers from an illness or injury that resulted in limited function and mobility, consult a physical therapist to know if aquatic therapy is a suitable treatment option for recovery and gaining normal activity levels.
If you are looking for occupational or physical therapy, vestibular rehab, wheelchair training, learning to walk, unweighting aquatic therapy, or other services in the Phoenix area, please call Touchstone Rehabilitation at 602-277-1073.