What Is Aquatic Therapy, & What Are Its Benefits?

Aquatic therapy takes place in a pool or other aquatic environment. It is a low-impact form of exercise that uses the buoyancy of the water to support the body and reduce stress on the joints. This type of therapy is ideal for patients who may have difficulty with weight-bearing exercises. In addition, aquatic therapy can benefit patients seeking weight loss, early intervention, reconditioning, and more.

Patients perform exercises with the guidance of their physical therapist in a warm water pool. The temperature helps to reduce pain and muscle tension, allowing patients to perform exercises and movements that may be too strenuous on land. In addition, the resistance of the water provides a gentle form of resistance training, which can help to build strength, improve overall fitness, reduce joint pain and stiffness, and allow patients to move more easily and freely.

Aquatic therapy can be used to treat a wide range of conditions, including: 

• Arthritis
• Fibromyalgia
• Back Pain and Joint Pain
• Sports Injuries
• And More

It is often combined with other forms of physical therapy, such as stretching, strengthening exercises, and manual therapy techniques.

Who Should Consider Aquatic Therapy Treatment?

Some people who may benefit from aquatic therapy include:

• Individuals with joint pain or arthritis
• Patients with neurological conditions that cause mobility issues, such as Parkinson's disease or multiple sclerosis
• Individuals recovering from surgery
• Pregnant or postpartum women
• Pediatric patients with conditions such as cerebral palsy or spina bifida
• Athletes recovering from injuries
• Patients with chronic pain from conditions such as fibromyalgia or chronic back pain
• And more.

What Happens During a Session, & How Long Does It Take?

Before beginning an aquatic therapy program, you will undergo an evaluation with your physical therapist to determine the right treatment plan for you. Your specific condition and abilities will determine the exercises performed during your session. Your therapist will assist you through these stretches and exercises within the water during a 30-60 minute treatment session.

Aquatic Therapy Programs

At Moreau Physical Therapy, we offer a variety of aquatic therapy programs to assist with patient needs, such as:

• Spinal Rehabilitation concentrates on improved back strength and endurance, posture, body mechanics, and enhanced pelvic and shoulder girdle stability and education and training.
• General Orthopedic Rehabilitation improves cardiovascular endurance and general strength while providing flexibility, strength, and stability training for the affected joints.
• Arthritis Conditioning develops a functional range of motion, strength, and endurance without overstressing sore, stiff, or swollen joints.
• Sports Specific Rehabilitation focuses on strength, agility, and coordination while maintaining fitness and skills while the athlete is injured.
• Total Hip/Knee Replacement aids in recovery due to early intervention and reduced stress on the joint while exercising.
• Development Disabilities utilize the warmth and buoyancy of water to improve coordinated rhythmic movement and restore function.

Schedule Your Evaluation Today

Whether you are seeking relief post-surgery, postpartum, or from chronic pain disorders, aquatic therapy can pose a low-impact solution to pain relief and recovery. Visit our physical therapists for a professional evaluation to see if aquatic therapy suits you. Send us a message to request an appointment, or call us at 85-LIVE-MORE (855-483-6673).