When appropriate, an aquatic-based exercise program in conjunction with other aspects of physical therapy can help patients be more comfortable, progress quicker and enjoy their therapy sessions more than with traditional therapy alone. With an orthopedic emphasis, we utilize the pool in improving strength, balance, range of motion as well as reducing pain and managing weight-bearing limitations. The properties of the water provide many benefits including:
- BUOYANCY: This can be used to assist, support or resist motion. It also opposes gravity to provide spinal and joint unloading.
- HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE: This pressure helps to decrease edema by increasing venous return to the heart.
- RESISTANCE: By varying the speed of movement, length of the lever arm or surface area we can increase the level of resistance. Special equipment can also help to provide appropriate resistance to improve strength and stability.
- SECURITY: With a depth of 3.5 to 6 feet and special adaptive equipment, even those who can't swim or are afraid of the water can rehabilitate comfortably and safely.
Top 10 Reasons Why Our Patients Love Aquatic Physical Therapy
- "I feel less pain while I am in the water.
- "I can perform exercises in the water that I cannot perform on land yet."
- "The water is relaxing."
- "I feel more energy in my body after my decompression."
- "It's more of a challenge than I thought it would be."
- "I can exercise longer in the water than I can on land."
- "It helped to decrease the swelling in my ankle."
- "The therapy staff are very encouraging."
- "The variety of people I see in the pool is so varied, from people that can't walk to people that run marathons."
- "WE HAVE FUN."
