What is Aquatic Therapy?
Aquatic therapy refers to exercises performed in water for relaxation, fitness, physical rehabilitation, and other therapeutic benefit. Exercise performed in the water can bring relief to those who suffer from various neuromuscular or musculoskeletal disorders. The specific properties of water make aquatic therapy much different from land therapy as individuals can use water for resistance in place of gravity or weights.
Water’s unique properties allow individuals to benefit from less pressure on the joints, reduced inflammation, and a safe environment to improve balance and strength. This therapy is also a great option for individuals who are unable to exercise on land. They can improve their strength and endurance to recover or improve from their condition.
Our unique Aquatic Therapy Program provides a very good workout without the pain, stress, and muscle fatigue often associated with land-based exercises. Our full-sized pool, maintained at 94-96 degrees, is accessible to all with stairs or a chair lift.
What Happens During Aquatic Therapy?
Most rehabilitation centers will first evaluate individuals to make a treatment plan that is best for them. If aquatic therapy is a part of the plan, then sessions will be held in the water. In most cases, you are accompanied by a trained therapist. The therapist’s job is to assist patients during each session, and it is not even necessary for individuals to know how to swim before starting a session.
To make sure you are well prepared for a session, come with your swimsuit, a towel, shoes for the pool area, and a plastic water bottle to ensure you stay hydrated throughout the session. A positive attitude and openness is also a good thing to have. This may be something completely different than anything you have tried before.
How long does aquatic rehabilitation take?
Aquatic therapy sessions usually last between 30 and 60 minutes, pending on the specific needs and goals of the individual. Once a patient meets their aquatic goals, they work together with a therapist to move on to land based exercises as a part of their overall program.
Recovery from Aquatic Therapy
Most individuals find this therapy is beneficial in helping them get a good workout to strengthen their muscles, improve balance and flexibility while seeing improvements in their psychological well being as well. Aquatic therapy is available at GreenField Health & Rehabilitation Center.
Interested in Learning More?
GREENFIELD HEALTH & REHABILITATION CENTER
Skilled nursing, rehabilitation, respite care, and outpatient therapy
5949 Broadway Street
Lancaster, NY 14086
Phone: (716) 684-3000
Fax: (716) 684-3380
Email: ghrc@niagaralutheran.org
