Cerebral palsy (CP) affects approximately 1 in 700 children born in Australia, with prevalence declining from 2.4 per 1,000 live births in 1997–98 to 1.5 in 2013–14. Despite this positive trend, CP remains the most common physical disability in childhood, often resulting in challenges with muscle tone, movement, and coordination.
Hydrotherapy, also known as aquatic therapy, has emerged as a highly effective intervention for individuals with CP. At Healthstin in Hurstville, our Allied Health professionals offer tailored Hydrotherapy programmes designed to enhance strength, coordination, and overall wellbeing.
Why Hydrotherapy?
2 Studies indicate that aquatic therapy for cerebral palsy can significantly improve motor functions in children with CP. A systematic review found that 64% of studies reported beneficial effects on motor functions when compared to conventional therapy or no intervention. Hydrotherapy leverages the unique properties of water – buoyancy, resistance, and warmth – to create a supportive environment for movement. The buoyancy reduces the impact on joints, allowing for freer movement, whilst water resistance aids in muscle strengthening. Warm water further assists by relaxing muscles and reducing spasticity, common in individuals with CP.
Benefits of Hydrotherapy exercises for Cerebral Palsy
Hydrotherapy offers a wide range of benefits for individuals with CP:
- Enhanced Muscle Strength & Coordination: Water resistance facilitates muscle engagement, leading to improved strength and coordination.
- Improved Flexibility & Range of Motion: The supportive environment allows for greater movement, aiding in flexibility.
- Pain & Spasticity Reduction: Warm water immersion helps in relaxing tight muscles and reducing discomfort and spasticity.
- Cardiovascular Fitness: Aquatic exercises can enhance heart function, contributing to overall fitness.
- Psychological Wellbeing: Engaging in enjoyable water activities can boost confidence and reduce anxiety.
Hydrotherapy in Hurstville at Healthstin
Our Hurstville Allied Health Clinic offers specialised Hydrotherapy programmes tailored to the needs of individuals with CP. Our sessions are conducted in a safe, warm-water environment, ensuring comfort and effectiveness. Each programme of aquatic therapy exercises is customised, focusing on individual goals such as improving mobility, strength, and coordination.
If you or a loved one could benefit from Hydrotherapy for cerebral palsy, contact Healthstin Hurstville to schedule a session. Our Exercise Physiologists and Physiotherapists are all accredited Learn to Swim instructors. Every member of our team is dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey toward improved mobility and quality of life. For any further information, you can call us on 1300 090 931 or view our website here, book into a session by clicking this link, or you can visit our clinic at Hurstville Aquatic Leisure Centre.
