Aquatic Physiotherapy

Aquatic Physiotherapy
Healthy Strokes for Struggling Folks
Written by Moneera Mellick

   The healing effect of water is not a new notion. For centuries – ancient civilisations including the Greeks, Romans, Egyptians bathed in even older waters to cleanse their bodies of troubling ailments. While these days our muscles seem somewhat less defined, with the aid of a more modest wardrobe, one thing remains unchanged. Those two hydrogen atoms married with oxygen make for a lifesaving combination…

   Modern Physiotherapists have developed a water based, patient specific exercise system that delivers progressive rehabilitation. Known as Aquatic Physiotherapy, or Hydrotherapy, the treatment utilises the physical properties of water, warmth, and of course Physiotherapeutic techniques to treat the causes and symptoms of many musculoskeletal conditions.

   Chronic pain sufferers can actually exercise pain free, and even anxious non-swimmers can reap the benefits by remaining in shallow waters under constant supervision. Aquatic Physiotherapy is also a fantastic opportunity to improve your balance. Those at high risk of falling can practice walking on their heels or balancing on a single leg, and only risk a trip to the hair salon as opposed to the emergency department of their local hospital.

   For most people, Aquatic Physiotherapy is a means to exercise in a safe, supportive and fun environment. The comfortably warm pool temperature of 34°C allows muscles to relax and facilitates stretching, effectively decreasing pain and spasm.

   The hydrostatic pressure of the water works by increasing blood circulation to promote healing of body tissue, and to decrease swelling by redistributing fluid build-up. Buoyancy creates an opposing force to terrestrial gravity, which eliminates pressure on our bodies and, more specifically, our joints. In addition, the resistance provided by water combined with various floatation devices can be used as a means of strength training. Aquatic Physiotherapy, put simply, improves function, coordination and ultimately, quality of life.

   Aquatic Physiotherapy is particularly beneficial for those requiring orthopaedic rehabilitation; those who have undergone a joint replacement or injury; sufferers of arthritis, back or neck pain; or anyone requiring improvements in mobility, balance or general fitness. If this is sounds like you, consider “suiting up”.

   So don’t let your health and fitness become ancient history. Do as the Roman’s do, take charge and make a splash in your local Physiotherapy pool today!

Article By: Moneera Mellick