Aquatic Therapy – Aquatic therapy is an excellent addition to the traditional rehabilitation process due to the unique properties of water, providing a safe and supportive environment to encourage and develop functional movements.
- Buoyancy
Opposes the force of gravity, allowing the body to move more freely and easily than on land. Decreases compressive forces on weight-bearing joints and spinal discs. Assists joint range of motion
- Hydrostatic Pressure
Promotes circulation and reduces edema. Stabilizing muscles are constantly at work
- Viscosity
Provides three-dimensional resistance to promote muscle strength
University Hospitals Rehabilitation & Sports Medicine offers aquatic therapy as an effective treatment for many conditions including:
- General conditioning
- Trunk-Vertical Stabilization Program
- Postural training
- Shoulder dysfunction
- Flexibility Work
- Lower Extremity Program for hip, knee and ankle
- Fibromyalgia
- Sport Specific Training
- Gait Training
- Neurological Conditions
- Pregnancy
- Stroke
Athletes: Overuse injuries such as stress fractures, tendinitis, and strained muscles benefit from an aquatic environment by reducing joint stress while maintaining muscle strength and overall conditioning.