A Q U A T I C T H E R A P Y
Water supports the body, reduces joint stress, and provides resistance and assistance to movement. Patients can improve mobility, strength, and function with greater ease during the healing process.
WHY AQUATIC THERAPY?
It is the physical properties of water that make it a great healing and rehabilitative environment. Hydrostatic pressure, turbulence, viscosity, and buoyancy are those properties which make exercise in water much different than on land.
WHO WOULD BENEFIT FROM AQUATIC THERAPY
Aquatic therapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions including:
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Arthritic conditions
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Motor vehicle accident (especially when multiple injuries have been sustained)
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Chronic pain
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Obesity
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Fibromyalgia
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Neck and/or back pain
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Pre and Post-operative joint replacement surgery
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Little to no success with or are unable to perform land-based rehabilitative exercise programs
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A need for gait or balance training
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Severe deconditioning
PROPERTIES OF WATER
Hydrostatic Pressure
Hydrostatic pressure reduces swelling, provides compression and stabilization, and increases circulation.
Turbulence
The random motion of the water can provide therapeutic benefits of massage, resistance, increased circulation and reduced pain.
Viscosity
The resistance provided by the viscosity of the water can increase strength and muscular endurance.
Buoyancy
Due to buoyancy there is less strain on the muscles and joints requiring less effort. On the other hand, buoyancy can offer resistance when a flotation device is pushed or held under the water to challenge strength.
