Are you looking for effective physical therapy treatment methods? Aquatic therapy may be right for you. Sometimes called water therapy or simply aquatics, this treatment method can play a key role in physical therapy. Aquatic therapy can offer a range of benefits. These can include increased flexibility, reduced pain and more. Learning more about aquatic therapy can help you understand how it works and how it can help you.
What is aquatic therapy?
Aquatic therapy is a treatment approach utilized by physical therapists. This treatment involves performing controlled movements and exercises while submerged in water. Aquatic therapy sessions typically occur in a swimming pool. During a session, your physical therapist will guide you through movements that target your particular condition. If you’re experiencing muscle tightness in your arm, for example, your physical therapist may incorporate arm rotations and other stretches into your treatment plan.
The aquatic environment of this approach has many benefits. One benefit is water resistance. Water offers natural resistance to every movement, which can help you build strength. The buoyancy of water can also help by reducing the pressure on your joints and other tissue. If you’re experiencing pain around your knee joint due to excess pressure, for example, aquatic therapy may help you find relief.
Overall, aquatic therapy can be a great way to get exercise in a low-impact environment. If traditional exercises tend to cause you pain and discomfort, aquatic therapy might be right for you. Your physical therapist can help determine if you could benefit from aquatic therapy sessions.
What conditions can aquatic therapy address?
Arthritis — In one systematic review, aquatic exercise was found to alleviate pain, increase quality of life and reduce dysfunction in patients with osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is one of two major kinds of arthritis, the other being rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition affecting the tendons. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that develops when the cartilage around the bones and joints starts to deteriorate. Osteoarthritis and RA both involve joint inflammation. This joint inflammation can lead to persistent pain, stiffness, swelling and other symptoms. Aquatic therapy can help by reducing pressure on your joints. You can engage in stretches that alleviate tension without worsening your arthritis symptoms. Over time, aquatic therapy sessions can lead to improved function and less pain.
Back pain — Do you experience chronic back pain? Whether your back pain is caused by a sudden injury or a chronic condition, aquatic therapy may help. Chronic back pain can have a significant negative impact on your quality of life. Daily activities may become much more difficult and uncomfortable. With aquatic therapy, you can address your back pain at the source to experience lasting relief. If you’re experiencing back pain, your physical therapist may recommend aquatic exercises that engage your core. Strengthening your core can improve back support. By developing your core and maintaining proper posture, you can start to ease your back pain and any other symptoms you might be experiencing.
Neurological conditions — Aquatic therapy can be effective in managing the symptoms of neurological conditions like multiple sclerosis. Water can help your body feel supported. If you have coordination problems or muscle weakness due to a neurological condition, you may find it easier to move in the water. With aquatic therapy, you can develop strength, flexibility and coordination in an accessible environment.
Surgery — Have you recently had surgery? Are you expecting to have surgery in the near future? Aquatic therapy can play an essential role throughout the process. Before surgery, aquatic therapy can help you improve your physical fitness. This can reduce the risk of complications during surgery. After your surgery, aquatic therapy can help you recover. Your physical therapist may recommend targeted underwater exercises that stimulate blood flow, helping injured tissue heal.
Sports injuries — High-impact sports can lead to a lot of soft tissue injuries. If you’ve recently experienced a sports injury such as a muscle strain or ligament tear, aquatic therapy can help you recover. Your physical therapist can also help you practice injury prevention techniques, reducing your risk of future injury.
Experience the benefits of aquatic therapy at KC Rehab
Are you ready to engage in aquatic therapy? At KC Rehab, aquatic therapy is one of many different services we offer. Alongside one of our skilled physical therapists, you can work together to develop a treatment plan that fits your needs and goals. Whether you need help recovering from surgery or managing arthritis symptoms, aquatic therapy may play a pivotal role in your treatment journey.
Contact our team today for more information about aquatics or to schedule an initial appointment.
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