Recovering from an injury can be challenging and often requires various therapies
and treatments so you can regain strength, mobility, functional capacity, and health.
When land-based training makes exercise daunting because of functional
limitations due to injury or a chronic condition such as arthritis, it’s time to head to
the pool for Hydrotherapy.
But is hydrotherapy truly effective for rehabilitation and recovery from injury?
Together, let’s dive into the water to find out.
Hydrotherapy taps the properties of water to provide a low-impact environment
for rehab exercises. Buoyancy reduces the impact of training on the joints and
muscles making aquatic therapy ideal for people with limited mobility. Water also
provides resistance to help build muscle strength and improve flexibility.
One of the primary concerns of individuals recovering from an injury is pain. It’s
perfectly understandable as you wouldn’t want to add more pain to an already
painful condition. Warm water Hydrotherapy can help alleviate injury-related pain
and provide much-needed relief as it helps reduce swelling and inflammation.
Exercising in water enables your muscles and joints to move through a greater
range of motion, facilitating rehabilitation. Water also provides resistance on two
planes simultaneously which allows you to improve muscle strength without putting a
big strain on your body as well as build your cardiovascular fitness.
Studies have shown the effectiveness of Hydrotherapy in aiding recovery during
rehabilitation. One such study featured in the Journal of Orthopaedic Surgery and
Research demonstrates aquatic therapy’s efficacy in reducing pain, improving
function, and enhancing the participants’ quality of life. Another study published in
the European Journal of Physical and Rehabilitation Medicine suggests that
Hydrotherapy can help improve the balance and functional capacity of patients
recovering from a stroke.
It’s best to consult with an accredited Health Professional to get a proper
assessment and receive guidance on a Hydrotherapy rehabilitation program. Feel
free to reach out to our Allied Health Team at Healthstin in Hurstville by calling
1300 090 931 or clicking this link to book an appointment.
