Aquatic Physiotherapy
According to the Australia Physiotherapy Association (APA) Aquatic physiotherapy is used to treat many different conditions. These physiotherapists work with people of all ages and across a multitude of different conditions, whether it’s those recovering from surgery, women who are pregnant, those with a disability or athletes recovering from sporting injuries.
Aquatic physiotherapy, also known as aquatic therapy or aquatic rehabilitation, is a form of physiotherapy that takes place in a pool or other aquatic environment. It utilises the properties of water to aid in the rehabilitation process and improve physical function. Here are some key aspects of aquatic physiotherapy:
1. Buoyancy: Water supports the body, reducing the impact on joints and allowing for easier movement, which can be particularly beneficial for individuals with weight-bearing restrictions or pain.
2. Resistance: Water provides natural resistance to movement, allowing for strengthening exercises without the need for weights or machines. Resistance can be adjusted by altering the speed and direction of movement.
3. Temperature: The warmth of the water can help to relax muscles and increase circulation, promoting healing and reducing pain.
4. Hydrostatic Pressure: The pressure exerted by the water can help to reduce swelling and improve joint position awareness.
5. Balance and Coordination: Working in water challenges balance and coordination due to the constant need to adjust to the buoyant forces and resistance, which can improve these skills over time.
6. Safe Environment: Aquatic physio is often used for individuals who may have difficulty with land-based exercises due to pain, weakness, or other physical limitations. The buoyancy and support provided by water reduce the risk of falls and injuries.
7. Conditions Treated: It is commonly used to rehabilitate individuals with musculoskeletal injuries, neurological conditions, arthritis, chronic pain, and post-surgical recovery, among others.
Aquatic physiotherapy sessions are typically conducted by physiotherapists trained in aquatic rehabilitation techniques. Exercises and treatments are tailored to the individual’s specific needs and goals, taking advantage of the unique properties of water to optimize recovery and functional outcomes.
At All Sorted Physiotherapy Gladstone, our very experienced physiotherapist Kerrie, is a trained aquatic physio and has the knowledge of the hydrodynamic and hydrostatic properties of water, the physiological effects of immersion, and all relevant water safety procedures.
Kerrie utilises the benefits of the water and gravity minimised opportunity to treat patients with musculoskeletal pain, early stages sporting injuries, neurological conditions, post-operative injuries as well as children or adults with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and other paediatric conditions.
We follow strict safety protocols, and each patient situation must be evaluated by Kerrie before making an aquatic physio session. Aquatic physio sessions are by appointment only. We generally access different local pools and access to the pools will generally incur an additional cost which must be borne by the patient.
If you’re interested in the benefits of aquatic physiotherapy, please get in touch and we would love to discuss how this may help you or your child – your local physio near me!