What is hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy, or aquatic physiotherapy, is a low impact form of exercise therapy that is beneficial for a range of conditions, including:
- Joint pain such as low back, knee or hip pain
- Post-operative rehab, such as after total knee or hip replacement
- Osteoarthritis or inflammatory joint conditions
- Cardiorespiratory or neurological conditions
- Joint stiffness associated with disability or immobility
- General fitness where low impact on the joints is more comfortable
Physiotherapists are able to guide you through a tailored exercise program in the pool that will strengthen and condition your body at the right level for you, and aid in recovery from or prevention of injury.
Why is hydrotherapy beneficial?
Hydrotherapy challenges the body and is beneficial in many different ways to land exercise, including:
- The buoyancy of the water supports your weight, taking load off your joints and allowing them to move freely
- The warm temperature of the pool allows muscles to relax and helps you exercise comfortably
- The water provides gentle resistance to allow strengthening of muscles, while also improving range of motion of joints
- As you work in different depths of water, resistance is altered and can be used to challenge your body, or make exercises easier
With hydrotherapy your body will be challenged at an appropriate level to keep you safe, while helping you achieve your fitness goals, or return to pre-injury function.
If you think hydrotherapy could be of benefit for you, or you would like some more information please contact the practice on 03 6237 0045 to book an assessment.
Written by Jessica Osborn (APAM, MPhysio, BHlthSc)