Aquatic Therapy continues to grow in popularity, availability and frequency of prescription. Southern California Sports Rehab has been a leading provider of Aquatic Therapy for nearly 30 years.

Here are the 7 ways you and your patients can benefit from Aquatic Therapy!

#1: Lowers Fall Risk

Many patients seeking therapy will have issues with balance and stability. These challenges could actually prevent them from benefiting from land-based physical therapy. When a patient is in the water they are supported in way that reduces fall risks and injuries if not eliminating them completely. This includes entering and exiting the pool which can be accomplished with the lift chair.

#2: Helps With Balance and Coordination

Because of the reduced fall risk mentioned above patients in aquatic therapy can actually begin to strengthen their muscles and practice their balance and coordination in this safe and supporting environment of the water. Water slows everything down, preventing falls and further injury. Patients can recover their poise if they get out of balance, becoming less fearful and more confident. Confidence is greatly enhanced and encourages patients to complete their prescribed courses of therapy.

#3: Reduces Stress on Joints and Bones

Because of buoyancy and displacement, water reduces a patient’s body weight by up to 90% if they are submerged up to their neck. The reduced load on joints, bones and muscles makes exercises possible in the water that would otherwise be impossible on land due to injury or their musculoskeletal condition.

#4: Builds Muscle Strength and Endurance

Water, being much denser than air, increases the resistance posed then executing any movement. Pushing against the resistance of water allows patients to increase their abilities to load their muscles with work and thus increase strength but do so in a supportive, low-impact environment that will not stress bones and joints like when on land.

#5: Increases Aerobic Capacity

The aerobic exercise required to push against the increased resistance of water will increase the patients lung capacity and vo2 max, the body’s ability to absorb and use oxygen during exercise. Increased aerobic capacity is a sign of general health and specifically lowers heart disease and blood pressure risks both of which are good for patients who cannot get those benefits due to pain and mobility issues in land-based physical therapy.

#6: Improves Joint Flexibility

A greater range of motion can be achieved exercising in water, loosening otherwise stiff joints and tendons. The intentionally warm water of the pool relaxes muscles which takes tension off the joints making exercise more comfortable. Arthritis patients respond particularly well as do patients with other joint-related conditions to the gentle, safe exercise available through aquatic therapy.

#7: Reduces Swelling

The pressure of the water on your body, known as hydrostatic pressure, is exerted by the water filling the pool. During exercise, the pressure increases your circulation which combats swelling making you less stiff with increased mobility. This, in turn, allows you to do more exercise.

Click here for a complete rundown on Aquatic Therapy including a link to Frequently Asked Questions, Testimonials about aquatic therapy, which insurance company’s cover it and a list of conditions it can treat.

Occupational Medical Groups & Work Comp Referral Coordinators: remember, we can treat work-related injuries with aquatic therapy as well.

Related Aquatic Therapy reading:

• Has Your Patient Maxed Out Their Physical Therapy Sessions? What Can Be Done?
• Spring Is The Time For Rehabilitation: Try Aquatic Therapy In 80° Pools!
• What Aquatic Therapy Is And What It Is NOT!