Aquatic Therapy - A gentle, effective form of rehabilitation
- Category: Blog
- Posted On:
- Written By: PVHMC - Admin
For some patients, and for some conditions, rehabilitation from injury or illness can be a long, difficult and painful process. Sometimes traditional land-based exercises may cause symptoms to actually flair in these individuals. In those cases, warm water Aquatic Therapy may offer an alternative road to recovery.
Aquatic Therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy conducted in temperature-controlled pools. Individualized treatment plans are designed to improve mobility, balance, strength, and endurance. The goal is less pain, better function.
Aquatic Therapy sessions may include underwater walking and stair training, floatation buoys for stretching, and water weights for strengthening, all in a comfortable and safe environment.
Aquatic Therapy may be ideal for:
- Arthritis
- Back injuries
- Balance disorders
- Chronic swelling
- Fibromyalgia
- Multiple sclerosis
- Myofascial pain syndrome
- Neurologic disorders
- Orthopedic injuries
- Osteoporosis
- Post-surgical conditions
- Stroke
- Total joint replacements
Why is the warm pool more effective for some?
Buoyancy of Water
- Provides a gravity-free environment
- Decreases the impact on weight-bearing joints more than 50%
- Allows earlier, less painful movement
- Speeds functional mobility
- Eliminates the risk of falling
Resistance in the Water
- Builds endurance and strength
- Increases flexibility
- Encourages balance and coordination
- Maintains or regains muscle tone
- Dampens involuntary movements
- Reduces tactile hypersensitivity
- Improves proprioception
Hydrostatic Pressure of Water
- Increases circulation
- Lowers blood pressure
- Decreases swelling
- Improves sensory awareness
- Helps breathing
- Assists with exhalation
PVHMC’s Aquatic Therapy Pools
Our pools are located inside our Physical Therapy clinics at PVHC Chino Hills and PVHC La Verne.
- Water temperature – 86° to 90°F
- Pool accessibility – stairs or chair lift
- Pool depth – 3.5 feet to 5 feet
- Changing room and rinse off shower – available
The ability to swim is not necessary to participate, but there are certain conditions not recommended for water-based therapy. Careful screening by a physician and physical therapists will determine if water-based rehabilitation is a good option for therapy.
Aquatic Therapy is covered by Medicare and most insurance plans. Regular physical therapy co-payments will apply. Cash rates are available.
For more information, please call 909-392-6531.
