Aquatic Therapy

What is Aquatic Therapy

and

how is it different from other Physical Therapy options?

Physical therapist utilize Aquatic Therapy because there are several different properties of the water that can assist in the healing and rehabilitation process.

Buoyancy

Bouyancy helps in supporting the weight of the patient. It helps to "unload" the spine and joints. When joints are painful to move and bend, it becomes easier once submersed, to get the tissue loosened. Often patients who walk with crutches and walkers, once in the water, can walk normal because of this "unloading" effect of the water. Pain is reduced because of the buoyancy and the warmth of the water.

Hydrostatic Pressure

The hydrostatic pressure of the water helps to decrease swelling and improve the mobility of the joints and tissues. Swollen ankle, knee and limb issues related to injury and disease processes, become easier to move and are less painful, thus helping to speed the healing process.

Warm, Relaxing Environment

The warm water of the therapeutic pool helps in the healing process by creating muscle relaxation which further eases movement. At MTS, we keep our therapeutic pool at 89°F while our whirlpool functions at 100°F.

Common Injuries/Conditions that often benefit from Aquatic Therapy

Arthritis including Rheumatoid and Osteoarthritis conditions

Low back pain including disc issues, sprains and strains.

Post-surgical conditions: total joint replacement, back surgeries, hip/knee/ankle

Fibromyalgia and other autoimmune disorders

Deconditioned patients after injury/surgery/illness

Most Common Misconceptions about Aquatic Therapy

"I can't do Aquatic Therapy because I don't know how to swim." -- The Aquatic Therapist works with many patients who are non-swimmers and adjusts the program to accommodate need and level.

"Land Physical Therapy didn't help so Aquatic Therapy won't either." -- The gravity reduction in the pool can benefit patients who did not respond to Physical Therapy on land.