Patients range from highly trained athletes to the more sedentary; from pediatric to geriatric. Research has shown that physical therapy treatment which includes aquatic physical therapy is more effective and can lead to a more rapid recovery.
Wide variety of upper or lower extremity programs forincreased range of motion, strength, and endurance. Hydrostatic pressure improves tissue healing; buoyancy minimizes gravity to allow low impact exercise; viscosity improves strength without irritating healing tissues.
Buoyancy decompresses the spine and relieves stress on sore joints and muscles; hydrostatic pressure improves tissue healing; thermal effects decrease pain and spasm; viscosity improves core stability and strength.
Joint decompression (buoyancy) results in less pain during ROM and strengthening; thermal effects decrease pain and spasm; hydrostatic pressure decreases inflammation.
Fibromyalgia/Chronic Pain – Buoyancy improves aerobic exercise tolerance; thermal effects decrease pain, promote relaxation; viscosity increases strength; endorphins are released.
Obesity – Buoyancy decreases weightbearing and stress on joints which provides support; viscosity improves tone and strength thereby increasing metabolism.
Balance/Gait Abnormalities – Hydrostatic pressure improves balance and proprioception; buoyancy decreases weight-bearing, protects from falls; confidence is improved
