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Aquatic Physical Therapy
The area of physical therapy that involves performing exercises in the water is known as aquatic therapy. Aquatic therapy is especially beneficial for people who have difficulty with weight bearing activities and is designed to help patients regain freedom of movement. Aquatic therapy can dramatically reduce and even eliminate pain. The combination of simple exercises and pool water has a safe, therapeutic effect on the body. Through the buoyancy and resistance of the water as well as the changes in blood flow, many patient populations may benefit from aquatic physical therapy.
Patient populations that may benefit from aquatic therapy may include those who suffer from arthritis, lumbar/hip/knee pain, recent fractures, pain from recent orthopedic surgeries, and chronic pain disorders. For these patient populations, aquatic therapy provides several benefits that regular exercises "on land" cannot. The natural buoyancy of water offers support for the body by diminishing the effects of gravity. As a result it reduces stress on joints and provides moderate compression for improved circulation to promote healing through vasodilatation.
Vasodilatation refers to the widening of blood vessels. This temporarily causes increased blood flow and decreased blood pressure. An increase in blood flow also means an increase in oxygen to the injured area and ultimately improved healing. While water provides assistance while exercising, it also provides resistance so that one can build strength while progressing through various levels of activity.
Initially, exercises can be performed in the direction of assistance. As strength improves, the exercises can be modified so that no assistance is used, and then progressed so that the exercises are performed against the resistance of the water. Often the physical therapist will use floatation devices such as kickboards, webbed gloves, and weights to provide added resistance. Many patients gain mobility, flexibility, strength, and confidence in their ability to function as a result of aquatic physical therapy. Aquatic physical therapy helps patients return to their normally daily activities and recreational activities.
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Did you know?..... If you are non-weight bearing (NWB), exercises in the water will enhance your physical therapy on land and improve your overall recovery time.
