Hydrotherapy, also known as Aquatic therapy, refers to water-based exercises of therapeutic intent. Exercises are performed whilst either partially submerged or floating in water.
Hydrotherapy can facilitate restoration of function for many areas of orthopedics, including joint replacements, sports injury, work conditioning and back rehabilitation programs.
Water-based exercise is especially beneficial where limited or non-weight-bearing is desirable and where normal functioning is limited by inflammation, pain, muscle spasm and/or limited range of motion. Water also provides a controlled environment for re-education of weak muscles and skill development for neurological or neuromuscular impairment.
Various properties of water contribute to therapeutic effects, including the ability to use water for resistance in place of gravity or weights; thermal stability which permits maintenance of a near-constant temperature; hydrostatic pressure that supports and stabilises injured body parts; and buoyancy that permits floatation and reduces the effects of gravity.
Hydrotherapy programs can be written by your Physio for you to perform in the sea, at the Port Lincoln Leisure Centre, or in your own pool. If required, Physios are able to attend off-site with you to oversee your initial orientation session.
