By Desirée Gagné, MA, OTR/L

Aquatic Therapy is a form of physical therapy that takes place in a pool, or other aquatic environment, under the supervision of a trained physical therapist. Here are some of the benefits of how aquatic therapy and physical therapists complement each other:

1. Buoyancy: Water provides buoyancy, which reduces the effects of gravity on the body. This buoyancy can make movement easier for individuals with joint pain, arthritis, or those who have difficulty bearing weight on land. Physical therapists can utilize this property of water to facilitate movement and improve range of motion.
2. Resistance: Water provides resistance to movement in all directions, which can help strengthen muscles. Physical therapists can design exercises that take advantage of this resistance to improve muscle strength, endurance, and overall function.
3. Reduced impact: Aquatic therapy is low impact, making it suitable for individuals with various musculoskeletal conditions, such as osteoarthritis or fibromyalgia. The reduced impact on joints and tissues allows patients to exercise with less pain and discomfort compared to land-based exercises.
4. Pain relief: The warmth of the water in aquatic therapy pools can help relax muscles and alleviate pain. Additionally, the hydrostatic pressure of water can reduce swelling and improve circulation, further contributing to pain relief. Physical therapists can incorporate techniques such as gentle stretching and joint mobilizations to enhance pain management.
5. Balance and coordination: Water provides a supportive environment for individuals to work on balance and coordination without the fear of falling. Physical therapists can design exercises that challenge balance and coordination while providing a safe environment for patients to practice and improve these skills.
6. Increased cardiovascular fitness: Aquatic therapy can also be used to improve cardiovascular fitness. Physical therapists can incorporate activities such as water walking or water aerobics to enhance cardiovascular endurance while minimizing stress on joints and tissues.
7. Individualized treatment: Like traditional physical therapy offered at Rehability in Spring Hill, FL, aquatic therapy sessions are tailored to the individual needs and goals of each patient. Physical therapists assess clients’ conditions and design personalized treatment plans that address their specific impairments and functional limitations.
8. Psychological benefits: Exercising in water can be enjoyable and relaxing, leading to positive psychological effects such as reduced stress and improved mood. Physical therapists can create a supportive and encouraging environment during aquatic therapy sessions, which can enhance clients’ overall well-being.

Overall, aquatic therapy with a physical therapist offers a unique and effective approach to rehabilitation and exercise for individuals with a wide range of conditions. By combining the properties of water with the expertise of Rehability physical therapists, clients can experience improved mobility, strength, pain relief, and overall quality of life!

Are you seeking expert care and relief through aquatic therapy? Rehability in Spring Hill, FL, offers the expertise you need. Our skilled physical therapists specialize in aquatic therapy treatment, harnessing the therapeutic power of water to promote healing and rehabilitation. Whether you’re recovering from injury, managing chronic pain, or aiming to improve mobility, our team is here to help. We accept a range of insurance and offer flexible self-pay packages. Take the first step towards better health and call us today to schedule your aquatic therapy session!

For more information, call 352-701-0494 or visit https://rehabilitygroup.com/aquatic-therapy/

DISCLAIMER: This article is intended to provide general health information and is not intended to provide individual-specific medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.