3 Important Facts About Aquatic Physical Therapy
If you have been injured or have chronic pain, you may have already considered traditional physical therapy and found that it is too challenging in your current physical condition. In that instance, it is a good idea to consider starting aquatic physical therapy. Since the buoyancy provided by the water places less stress on your joints, combining it with resistance training can provide an improvement to your injuries or pain that are not possible through a traditional physical therapy program. If you are considering starting this type of program, it is best to consider the following information when making a decision as to a safe way to manage your pain or improve your physical condition.
#1-The Buoyancy Of The Water Removes Some Of The Physical Burden Of Your Body
Exercising with chronic pain or when recovering from a serious injury is particularly challenging, due to the very real risk of pain from the exercise. However, buoyancy, which is the feeling associated with swimming, when you feel as if you weigh less and is what allows you to float; can be utilized with aquatic physical therapy to minimize your pain. It can do so because it reduces the stress your joints experience and helps to support your weight. In turn, exercises are easier for you and typically results in less pain during and after the therapy.
#2-The Water Relaxes Your Muscles And Reduces Pain
Whether your pain is chronic or the result of a temporary, healing injury, you are likely to be very familiar with the challenges of pain and swelling. When they exist, your range of motion will usually decrease. Water provides hydrostatic pressure, which decreases both of those challenges, while also improving your circulation. When your circulation is better, additional and immediate discomfort is less likely, since your blood is no longer lingering in your arms and legs.
#3-You Do Not Have To Be Totally Submerged
Although people rarely talk about it, a recent study established that more than one out of three adult Americans cannot swim and almost half of U.S. adults are afraid of the deep end of the pool. If you fall into either of those categories and are therefore hesitant to participate in aquatic physical therapy, it will be helpful to know that you do not have to be a strong swimmer to benefit from it. Fortunately, there are exercises you can do while floating or only partially submerged. People who are comfortable in the water can fully submerged and you will also be supervised by your physical therapist or physical therapist assistant at all times.
In conclusion, aquatic physical therapy can often help individuals with chronic pain or an injury who cannot tolerate a standard physical therapy program. If that sounds all-too-familiar, it will be very helpful to to ask your health care provide about participating in an aquatic physical therapy program.