Aquatic physiotherapy (often refered to as hydrotherapy) is a beneficial rehabilitation tool, combining the therapeutic properties of water with physiotherapy techniques to enhance health and well-being. The buoyancy, resistance, and thermal properties of water create an ideal environment for healing and offers multiple benefits for individuals seeking a gentle yet effective way to improve their health.
Reduces load bearing on joints - When exercising in waist deep water the buoyancy of the water reduces your weight to less than half, reducing the impact on your joints and reducing pain.
Reduces muscle aches and tightness - Warm water helps to relax muscles and reduce spasms. Warm water also improves blood circulation therefore enhancing the healing process. The reduced muscle tightness also results in improved muscle flexibility.
Increases muscle strength - Exercises performed on land can be modified to perform in water, using the water as resistance. Resistance can further be altered through speed of movement and changes to surface area.
Improves cardiovascular fitness - The resistance of the limbs moving through the water builds muscle and improves cardiovascular fitness.
Improves balance and reduces falls risk - Balance exercises which you may be hesitant or fearful to perform on land, can be performed safley in the pool.
Stress relief: By participating in relaxing exercise in a safe environment you can participate with zero worries! Experience the natural endorphins release, which reduce your perception of pain.
Aquatic physiotherapy can help most conditions that result in pain, stiffness, weakness, deconditioning or low fitness, balance problems or difficulties moving.
Research shows that doing aquatic exercise results in improvements in many conditions. These include: hip and knee arthritis joint replacements fibromyalgia low back pain
There are also studies in neurological conditions, showing benefits for people with Parkinson’s Disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis and traumatic brain injury.
Similarly, research in pregnant women, paediatrics and heart and respiratory conditions demonstrates that people can benefit from aquatic exercise.