Aquatic physical therapy combines the well-known benefits of physical therapy with the physical properties of water. By taking advantage of a temperature-controlled, gravity-reduced environment the therapist can utilize the combined effects of immersion, buoyancy, and viscosity to expedite patient rehabilitation and often advance patients to new levels of functioning.
Each patient referred to our program receives a land-based physical therapy evaluation to determine the patient's functional limitations. Goals are determined according to the problems identified, and an individualized plan is developed to reach the goals set forth by patient and therapist. Therapeutic procedures may include therapeutic exercise, strengthening, conditioning, postural re-education, neutralization/stabilization, gait training, balance stimulation, and pain management all in an aquatic environment.
The physical properties of water augment the above therapeutic procedures by reducing weight bearing through painful joints, buoyancy assisted movement for the weak patient, and viscosity resisted movement for strengthening the advanced patient. The warm water envelops the patient improving sensory input, which can improve proprioception and body awareness. Movement and exercise appear easier in water and post-exercise soreness is reduced improving patient participation and compliance.
Aquatic physical therapy can offer superior benefits to your patient population in the following diagnosis groups:
- Spinal Patients
- Neurological Patients
- General Orthopedics
- General Conditions
- Arthritis
- Pain Management
