Aquatic Rehabilitation

Older woman exercising in a Water Aerobics class

Aquatic physical therapy is a great option for those who have not fully benefited from traditional land-based therapy. 

Aquatic therapy is indicated for those who have been diagnosed with the following: 

  • Chronic low back pain 
  • Spinal cord injury
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Osteoarthritis
  • Rheumatoid arthritis 
  • Knee, hip joint replacements 
  • Difficulty walking/balance impairments 
  • Sports Injuries 
  • Obesity 
  • Leg fractures
  • General deconditioning/weakness
  • Those with impaired weight bearing capacity on one or both legs. 

Benefits of Aquatic Therapy

  • Decreased joint and soft tissue pain
  • Improved joint and range of motion
  • Improved flexibility in muscles
  • Improved strength
  • Improved balance and walking ability
  • Decreased swelling

Beneficial Properties of Water

Viscosity: water has a “thickness” that provides resistance for strength training. 

Buoyancy: gravity acts less on objects submerged in water. In water, gravity acts less on the patient’s body resulting in less joint compression and muscle strain. 

Hydrostatic pressure: the gentle pressure of the water on the patient’s body results in natural relieve of joint and tissue swelling.

Temperature: our pool is kept between 88- and 92-degrees Fahrenheit. The warm water helps soothe stiff joints and promote circulation.

What You Will Need for Aquatic Rehabilitation:

  1. Referral for aquatic physical therapy from your physician
  2. Swimsuit, aqua shoes (recommended) and a towel 

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