Aquatics
Aquatic Therapy takes advantage of the properties of water such as buoyancy, resistance, and hydrostatic pressure, to promote overall fitness and rehabilitation to those who are unable to tolerate traditional land-based therapy programs. Aquatic Therapy complements these traditional therapy programs and often can improve patient’s mobility, ROM, and strength at a much faster rate, therefore, maximizing function. The water provides a unique environment for individuals suffering from chronic pain, muscle spasms, decreased ROM, and limited weight bearing. Licensed Physical and Occupational Therapists develop a customized treatment plan specific for each individual’s needs. A physician referral is required.
Benefits of Aquatic Therapy:
- Decreases Pain
- Decreases Stress on Joints
- Decreases fear/anxiety of movement
- Encourages Relaxation
- Increases Strength and Endurance
- Increases Circulation
- Decreases Swelling
- Improves coordination and balance
- Improves ROM and Flexibility
- Improves posture and gait
Conditions that may benefit from Aquatic Therapy are:
- Post-surgical rehabilitation (ACL reconstruction, joint replacements, rotator cuff repairs, ORIF, spinal fusions, discectomy, laminectomy)
- Amputations
- Neurological conditions (brain injuries, CVA, Parkinson’s)
- Arthritis (Osteo/Rheumatoid)
- Chronic Pain disorders (fibromyalgia, chronic fatigue syndrome)
- Diabetes
- Pre and Post Natal
- Gait and Balance disturbances
- General Disuse atrophy/deconditioning due to several co-morbidities (medical conditions)