Hydrotherapy is a type of exercise and movement that is carried out in a heated pool. Warm water allows easier and less painful movement, relaxing muscles and joints and allowing people to move in ways they may not be able to on land.
There are many benefits to hydrotherapy including decreased pain and swelling, increased function, strength and range of movement. It has been shown to have a number of health benefits including improved mood, better quality sleep and increased muscle strength. We find hydrotherapy is a great exercise choice for two different types of individuals.
Recovering from surgery
Hydrotherapy is great as post operative treatment as it is low impact and will promote joint healing and muscle strengthening in a supportive environment until traditional gym based exercise can be tolerated. If you are recovering from surgery, hydrotherapy can be a good short to medium term exercise option and an Exercise Physiologist can prescribe and progress a program for you to complete as part of your recovery.
Load challenged individuals
People who experience chronic pain, osteoarthritis and chronic fatigue may find that water based exercise is a more suitable long term option rather than land based exercise. In these situations, hydrotherapy can be a central part of a pain management program and helpful in maintaining strength, function and reducing pain.
Do you suffer from joint or muscle pain? If you’d like to chat with our team about whether hydrotherapy is a good idea for your recovery, give us a call!
