Hydrotherapy: a quick guide

What is hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy, also known as aquatic therapy, is a form of physiotherapy that utilises water to aid in the treatment and rehabilitation of various conditions.

The buoyancy, resistance, and temperature of the water play crucial roles in the therapeutic process.

By reducing the effects of gravity, water allows for easier movement and less strain on the body, making it an ideal environment for rehabilitation.

At Lifecare Frankston, we offer specialised hydrotherapy sessions designed to help our clients achieve optimal health and wellness.

What are the benefits of hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy offers a wide range of benefits, such as:

• Pain management: The warm water used in hydrotherapy helps to relax muscles and reduce pain. The buoyancy of the water supports the body, reducing stress on joints and muscles.
• Improved mobility: Water resistance provides a gentle yet effective way to improve joint mobility and flexibility. This is particularly beneficial for individuals with arthritis, joint replacements, or other conditions that limit movement.
• Enhanced circulation: The warmth of the water promotes better blood circulation, which can aid in the healing process and reduce inflammation.
• Strength building: Exercising in water provides resistance that helps to build muscle strength without the risk of injury associated with traditional weight-bearing exercises.
• Balance improvement: The supportive environment of water allows individuals to practice balance and coordination exercises safely, which can be particularly beneficial for those at risk of falls or with balance disorders.
• Stress reduction: The soothing properties of water can help reduce stress and promote relaxation, which is beneficial for overall mental health.

Who can benefit from hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is suitable for a wide range of individuals, including those with:

• Arthritis: The gentle movements and warm water can help reduce joint pain and stiffness.
• Chronic pain: Conditions such as fibromyalgia can be managed more effectively with the pain-relieving properties of hydrotherapy.
• Post-surgery recovery: Hydrotherapy can aid in the recovery process by improving mobility and reducing pain after surgery.
• Sports injuries: Athletes recovering from injuries can benefit from the low-impact nature of hydrotherapy exercises.
• Neurological conditions: Individuals with conditions such as multiple sclerosis or Parkinson’s disease may find hydrotherapy helpful in managing symptoms and improving mobility.
• Anyone wanting to improve their fitness and mobility: Hydrotherapy is a great way for anyone to keep active and mobile!

Join our hydrotherapy classes

At Lifecare Frankston, we offer group hydrotherapy classes at the Core24 Health and Fitness Club pool.

Our classes are held at 12:30pm and 1pm on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays.

These sessions are designed to provide a supportive and therapeutic environment where you can experience the benefits of hydrotherapy under the guidance of our experienced physiotherapists and allied health assistants.

In addition to group classes, we also offer 1-on-1 hydrotherapy sessions at the PARC swimming pool. These personalised sessions are ideal for those needing more support or guidance with exercises, allowing for tailored treatment plans to meet your specific needs and goals.

Before booking in for these sessions, one of our experienced physiotherapists will take you for a hydrotherapy assessment at our clinic – to ensure you will be safe in the pool and to write your tailored hydrotherapy program, ensuring the best possible outcomes when it comes time to get in the pool.

Visit Lifecare Frankston and discover how our hydrotherapy services can help you achieve your health and wellness goals. Contact us today to learn more and book your next session!

Jasper Quick is a physiotherapist at Lifecare Frankston with a passion for helping clients achieve their health and wellness goals. With a special interest in hydrotherapy, Jasper leads several of the hydrotherapy sessions offered at Lifecare Frankston. He is committed to providing each client with personalised care and support throughout their rehabilitation journey.

References

• Carere, A., & Orr, R. M. (2016). The impact of hydrotherapy on a patient’s perceived well-being: A critical review of the literature. Physical Therapy Reviews, 21(2), 91-101.
• Deenadayalan, B., Venugopal, V., Poornima, R., Yogapriya, C., Akila, A., Pandiaraja, M., Poonguzhali, S., & Maheshkumar, K. (2023). Analgesic effect of hydrotherapy: A narrative review of current evidence. Canadian Journal of Naturopathic Medicine, 34(1), 45-54. https://candjournal.ca/index.php/candj/article/download/123/192
• Doig, G. S. (2008). Evidence-based systematic review of the effectiveness of hydrotherapy in acute and chronic medical conditions. Evidence-Based Nursing, 11(3), 84-92.
• Silva, L. E., Valim, V., Pessanha, A. P. C., Oliveira, L. M., Myamoto, S., & Natour, J. (2008). Hydrotherapy versus conventional land-based exercise for the management of patients with osteoarthritis of the knee: A randomized clinical trial. Physical Therapy, 88(1), 12-21.
• Song, J.-A., & Oh, J. W. (2022). Effects of aquatic exercises for patients with osteoarthritis: Systematic review with meta-analysis. Healthcare, 10(3), 560.