Aquatic therapy is a type of physical therapy treatment that takes place in water, generally in an in-clinic pool. It is also commonly known as hydrotherapy and aquatic rehabilitation. The soothing properties of aquatic therapy can benefit you if you are seeking pain relief and relaxation.
To learn more about how our licensed Landowne and Leesburg, VA physical therapists can assist you with aquatic therapy treatments, contact Loudoun Physical & Occupational Therapy today!
What are the benefits of aquatic therapy?
Water’s natural properties set the stage for a very therapeutic environment. Did you know that aquatic therapy is a method of relief that has been practiced for hundreds of years by many cultures?
The ancient Romans and Greeks bathed in hot springs for relaxation and to improve circulation. Hippocrates believed hot springs could heal sickness. Swiss monks were well known to use thermal waters to treat sick people. The Japanese use hot springs to treat skin problems and relieve chronic pain.
Just a few of the many benefits of aquatic therapy include:
Relief
It can help provide relief for many conditions, including arthritis, chronic pain, lower back pain, orthopedic injuries, sprains, strains, and tendonitis.
Relaxation
It provides a soothing and relaxing environment for aching muscles and joints.
Resistance
Its natural resistance can be used to increase the rehabilitation process and strengthen muscles.
Hydrostatic pressure
With its hydrostatic pressure, you’re supported and don’t have to fear falling while performing exercises.
Buoyancy
Water has a natural buoyancy for flotation and reduces gravity on aching muscles and joints. There is less pain when you exercise in water.
Breathing
The respiratory muscles are forced to work harder during aquatic therapy, which helps you breathe better.
Wave propagation/turbulence
Wave propagation and turbulence allow your physical therapist to gently manipulate your body.
What does aquatic therapy aim to do?
The goals of aquatic therapy include:
- Enhancing the healing process to decrease recovery time.
- Building muscle strength and endurance.
- Improving flexibility and movement.
- Reducing stress and promoting relaxation.
- Improving coordination and balance.
- Assisting with locomotion and gait.
- Increasing aerobic capacity for better health.
This therapy may be added to your physical therapy treatment plan under the discretion of our Leesburg and Lansdowne physical therapists. He or she will assist you in the movements that will best help you find relief.
Get started today!
Aquatic therapy sessions are very organized and typically begin with a warm-up. It is likely that your sessions will start out as gentle, low-resistance exercises to target the lower and upper extremities. This may include brief walking and light stretches. Then they will turn to more advanced cardiovascular and core activities, such as running, squatting, arm swings, and leg swings, all performed in the water.
After your session, you will also have some cool-down methods. In many clinics, there will be a massage hose that provides a deep tissue massage-like experience. This prevents lactic acid from building up.
Aquatic therapy is a specialized form of physical therapy that we are happy to offer at Loudoun Physical Therapy. Our Leesburg and Lansdowne physical therapists recognize the positive effect of applying this water modality to a patient’s treatment program. It improves motion and functionality while simultaneously allowing the muscles to relax.
Contact Loudoun Physical Therapy today to get started!
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