Aquatic physical therapy takes place in a heated swimming pool and can have benefits for a wide variety of patients and diagnoses. Water therapy helps maintain or improve your current level of fitness while the body heals. It is a safe and progressive type of rehabilitation, because it takes place in a gravity eliminated/reduced environment and reduces impact from weight-bearing to the joints.
Patients do not need to know how to swim to participate and treatment will be directed by a licensed physical therapist. General strengthening and conditioning exercises using water as resistance or assistance, depending upon the goal of treatment will be worked into your program. When appropriate, aquatic and land-based therapies are used together for optimal results.