Hydrotherapy (also known as ‘aquatic physiotherapy’) has been utilised for thousands of years as a treatment for pain, inflammation and weakness.
Hydrotherapy provides an opportunity for freedom of movement and is highly recommended to achieve the following:·
- Increased strength and flexibility (post injury/surgery)
- Reduction of high tone & spasticity
- Reduction of pain and/or hypersensitivity
- Improved balance
- Improved circulation & cardiac function (improved general fitness).
- Improved respiratory function
- Improved co-ordination
- Increased feeling of well-being and psychological function
Through scientific analysis and research, hydrotherapy is proven to be a highly effective treatment. Movement in water causes several physiological effects on the body. The external pressure of water promotes venous return (circulation), which in turn has a ‘conditioning’ effect on the heart which helps to improve general fitness. The water’s warmth and buoyancy helps to relax muscle spasm and spasticity, which are common symptoms of neurological problems.
Buoyancy reduces the effective body weight, so for people who are in too much pain to walk, or have difficulties maintaining balance, hydrotherapy allows them to simulate land activities in a safe and supportive environment. The results achieved in the water can carry over to improvements in general function (when out of the water). This can also help to build confidence and a sense of achievement, which is very helpful to promote motivation and well-being.
Water offers excellent resistance and therefore strength training. By moving a limb faster through water, or increasing the surface area through the use of paddles, the resistance is increased. This helps to increase strength and power and helps to improve function.
Importantly, exercise in water can be really fun and a great opportunity for relaxation and to promote well-being.
We provide regular hydrotherapy sessions at the Hydro Hub (Newton Abbot) pictured here.
If you are unsure as to whether you may benefit from hydrotherapy and would like some more information, don’t hesitate to get in touch via email or through the contacts page.
Hydrotherapy at Woodview, Woodlands School, Plymouth on Fridays afternoons (3.30pm-5pm). Our Plymouth Neurophysio team provide hydrotherapy sessions on Friday afternoons (in term-time) at the hydrotherapy pool at Woodlands school, Plymouth.
The facility is fully accessible with both an overhead hoist and a chair hoist as well as fully accessible changing areas.
Please contact our team for more information.