Hydrotherapy, also known as Aquatic Therapy, is a treatment method performing exercises and activities in water, usually a warm water pool, to assist in rehabilitation and recovery. This form of treatment is used to help recover from injuries, manage persistent conditions and aid in overall well-being.
Hydrotherapy takes advantage of the property of water to facilitate healing and aid in recovery. The buoyancy of water helps to reduce the effect of gravity of the body, which allows easier movements and exercises, combined with the warmth of the pool, can help to relax muscles, improve circulation and improve mobility.
Hydrotherapy is a useful tool in rehabilitation and recovery as it can aid in:
Pain Relief: The warmth of the water can help reduce pain in patients
Improving Range of Motion: Warm water stimulates blood flow which can help muscles relax and allow increased movement of a joint.
Strengthening: Using water as a resistance can help improve muscle strength. Utilising the buoyancy of water to allow you to perform exercises you may not be able to do on land.
Improve Coordination and Balance: The movement of the water can add an extra challenge to coordination and balance exercises.
Improve Swelling: Hydrostatic pressure created by the water adds compression to the body which can assist in lymphatic drainage resulting in reduced swelling.. The deeper you are in the water the greater the hydrostatic pressure on the body.
– Osteoarthritis
– Rheumatoid arthritis
– Fibromyalgia
– Post surgical conditions
– Persistent pain conditions
– Shoulder injuries
– Foot and ankle injuries
Hydrotherapy is a valuable tool in physiotherapy, offering a wide range of benefits for individuals recovering from injuries or managing chronic conditions. By taking advantage of the unique properties of water, hydrotherapy can help reduce pain, improve strength and range of motion and assist in rehabilitation and recovery.
Perform Physio + Pilates runs our hydrotherapy classes at the Northcote Aquatic & Recreation Centre.
If you would like to know more about our hydrotherapy service or book in for a hydrotherapy session with one of our physiotherapists then please contact us on:
(03) 94998658 or book through our booking link below