Aquatic physical therapy, also known as water therapy or hydrotherapy, is a form of physical therapy that takes advantage of the buoyancy, resistance, and healing properties of water to promote rehabilitation and recovery. It is commonly used for rehabilitation, injury recovery, or management of chronic conditions.
Mechanicsburg Physical Therapy offers aquatic physical therapy as a specialized treatment option for a range of conditions, including arthritis, chronic pain, and other injuries. Keep reading to learn more about the effectiveness of water-based exercises and the benefits for patients seeking aquatic physical therapy in Mechanicsburg.
What Is Aquatic Physical Therapy?
Aquatic physical therapy is a type of exercise rehabilitation provided by trained physical therapists in a warm pool. Physical therapists use the unique properties of water to promote normal movement and function. An aquatic physical therapy program generally includes exercises for strength, posture, and balance to help with specific limitations or everyday activities, such as working or returning to sport after an injury or surgery.
The Power Of Aquatic Physical Therapy
Aquatic physical therapy has numerous benefits for different conditions or injuries. Let’s delve into some of the reasons aquatic physical therapy is an effective rehabilitative tool:
- Promotes range of motion and flexibility: The water’s natural resistance allows for controlled and low-impact movements, which can aid in working into a greater range of motion. Physical therapists can also use certain exercises in the water to target specific muscle groups, enhancing joint mobility and flexibility.
- Enhances muscle strength and endurance: Aquatic physical therapy utilizes the natural resistance provided by water in the therapeutic exercises. This resistance challenges muscles, resulting in improved strength and endurance. By engaging in aquatic exercises, patients can regain muscle strength without placing excessive strain on their bodies.
- Improved balance and coordination: The buoyancy and hydrostatic pressure of water offers support and stability in the pool. Additionally, aquatic physical therapy exercises target core stability and proprioception, enabling patients to develop better control over their movements, helping train balance and coordination.
- Reduced pain and inflammation: The warmth of the water used in aquatic physical therapy promotes relaxation and increases blood flow. This, in turn, can help alleviate pain and reduce inflammation in injured or affected areas, providing relief to patients suffering from chronic pain conditions or recovering from injuries.
- Low impact exercise: Aquatic physical therapy is a form of low impact exercise as the water buoyancy reduces the weight-bearing stress on the muscles and joints, such as the knees, hips, and spine. This feature helps patients exercise comfortably and without exacerbating any existing conditions. As a result, aquatic physical therapy is particularly advantageous for patients with orthopaedic conditions such as arthritis and osteoporosis, or those recovering from joint replacement surgeries, as it allows them to exercise with less pain.
- Faster rehabilitation: Aquatic physical therapy can help expedite the rehabilitation process. The types of exercise enabled by the pool and the gentle resistance of water can allow patients to begin rehabilitation sooner than they would with traditional land-based therapy. This accelerated recovery helps individuals regain function and return to their daily activities more quickly.
- Overall well-being: Aquatic physical therapy not only focuses on physical rehabilitation but also contributes to overall well-being. Water-based exercises can boost mood, reduce stress levels, and increase confidence, ultimately improving the overall quality of life.
Contraindications Of Aquatic Therapy
Physical therapists consider the medical history, current health status, and any potential risks for each patient to ensure safety and maximize the advantages during aquatic physical therapy. While many patients can benefit from aquatic-based exercise, there are some precautions and contraindications that may prevent this as a treatment option. These include:
- Illness, fever, or infections
- Open wounds or active bleeding
- Uncontrolled bladder or bowel incontinence
- Contagious illnesses, such as gastro
- Severe cardiovascular or neurological conditions
- Seizure disorders
- Fear of water or aquaphobia
- Unstable blood pressure
It’s important to discuss any issues or concerns with the physical therapist or doctor who will determine if aquatic physical therapy is the right treatment choice, or if there are other more suitable treatment options.
Ask Your Physical Therapist About Aquatic Physical Therapy
Whether recovering from surgery, managing a chronic condition, or seeking relief from pain, aquatic physical therapy offers a multitude of benefits for a range of different patients. With the guidance of highly skilled physical therapists, aquatic physical therapy programs can be customized to meet the specific needs of each patient. From enhancing muscle strength and endurance to alleviating pain and inflammation, aquatic physical therapy can be the right treatment option.
FYZICAL Therapy & Balance Centers – Mechanicsburg is dedicated to providing exceptional care and achieving positive outcomes for every patient. Embark on the journey to recovery with aquatic physical therapy in Mechanicsburg. Experience the transformative power of water!
References
APA. Aquatic Physiotherapy. Available from: https://australian.physio/inmotion/aquatic-physiotherapy
Hydroworx. The Ultimate Guide to Aquatic Physical Therapy. Available from: https://www.hydroworx.com/research-education/additional-resources/aquatic-therapy-guide/
Physiopedia. Aquatherapy. Available from: https://www.physio-pedia.com/Aquatherapy