WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF HYDROTHERAPY?
Hydrotherapy is a form of exercise which is completed in a heated pool (between 31-35 degrees Celsius). Hydrotherapy is suitable for many different people and health conditions. We often find that individuals with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, neurological conditions, or those who are rehabilitating after surgery, reap great benefits from hydrotherapy. It may be recommended for a range of reasons, as the benefits of hydrotherapy include:
Improving joint range of motion:
The buoyance and weight-less nature of the water assists individuals to move their joints in greater ranges than may be achieved out of the water. Moving these joints through these ranges of motion allows the individuals to continually progress their mobility both in and out of the pool.
Reduction/management of pain:
The warmth and natural compression of the water works to improve symptoms of pain by increasing blood flow. The support and buoyancy of the water also allows them to complete exercises in a low-impact environment, which they may have been unable to complete on land due to pain.
Increasing muscle strength:
During hydrotherapy sessions a range of equipment is used to complete a variety of exercises. This includes using body weight or buoyant objects in the water to complete strength exercises. Therefore, strength can be increased, whilst reducing the load and weight placed through the joints.
Improve cardiovascular fitness:
Finally, hydrotherapy is a fantastic option for increasing cardiovascular fitness, particularly if that individual is unable to complete activities such as walking out of the water without experiencing pain. Activities such as water walking, swimming or high-intensity exercises completed in a hydrotherapy pool will work to improve cardiovascular fitness and health, with a reduction in joint load. You may have also noticed that walking in water, can use more energy and elevate your heart rate as the water is providing increased resistance.
Speaking with an Exercise Physiologist can help you determine if hydrotherapy is right for you. They can also assist you to develop a hydrotherapy program which will provide the greatest benefits for reaching your goals. If you would like to talk with Coordinated Fitness Exercise Physiologists, please call 0417 765 818.
2/601 Logan Rd, Greenslopes Q 4120
1300 25 44 17
0417 765 818
