Aquatic Therapy
Discover the Benefits of Aquatic Therapy Today
Aquatic Therapy is more than simply swimming; it can be used in several applications to aid patients in recovery. Exercises in the water can range from holding the side of the pool or flotation devices to more independent movements depending on the your mobility and balance. Buoyancy in water helps relieve the effect gravity has on joints, making it easier and often more comfortable to move in the water than on land. Water provides an effective and safe method of healing injuries, increasing mobility and flexibility, and can restore confidence. Our innovative care strategies at Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy in Loveland and Central Fort Collins will help you find quick relief.
To learn more about how our licensed Colorado physical therapists can assist you with aquatic therapy treatments, contact Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy today!
What can I find with aquatic therapy sessions?
Aquatic therapy at Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy is able to provide the following:
- 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.
- Wave propagation/turbulence. Wave propagation and turbulence allow your physical therapist to gently manipulate your body.
- Resistance. Its natural resistance can be used to increase the rehabilitation process and strengthen muscles.
- Relaxation. It provides a soothing and relaxing environment for aching muscles and joints.
- Improved Breathing. The respiratory muscles are forced to work harder during aquatic therapy, which helps you breathe better.
- Relief. It can help provide relief for many conditions, including arthritis, chronic pain, lower back pain, orthopedic injuries, sprains, strains, and tendonitis.
What’s in it for me?
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.
The benefits of aquatic therapy include:
- Assisting with locomotion and gait
- Improving flexibility and movement
- Improving coordination and balance
- Increasing aerobic capacity for better health
- Enhancing the healing process to decrease recovery time
- Reducing stress and promoting relaxation
- Building muscle strength and endurance
Aquatic therapy may be added to your current physical therapy treatment plan under the discretion of our physical therapist at our clinics in Loveland and Central Fort Collins.
He or she will assist you in the movements that will best help you find relief.
So, how exactly does aquatic therapy work?
Aquatic therapy sessions are very organized and typically begin with a warm-up. They all take place in the water and will likely begin with 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.
It is a specialized form of physical therapy that we offer at Loveland and Central Fort Collins.
Our Colorado physical therapists recognize the positive effect of using water treatments to improve motion and functionality while simultaneously allowing your muscles to relax.
Want to get started with our aquatic therapy sessions?
If you are in Colorado looking for relief and relaxation, aquatic therapy will likely be beneficial to you. We provide valuable treatments at our clinics in Loveland and Central Fort Collins. Request an appointment with Rocky Mountain Physical Therapy today to get started!
