Mobility can be improved with hydrotherapy because people are able to perform activities in the pool that they are unable to perform on dry land. With the appropriate progression of exercises these activities, such as walking or running, will be able to be performed outside the pool. The support of the water and the reduced fear of falling can aid mobility practice. Exercises against the resistance of water and dynamic exercises within the water can also improve muscle strength, balance and co-ordination.
Hydrotherapy can be used to speed up the recovery of patients that are unable to weight-bear or can only partially weight-bear following surgery or injury, by increasing range of movement and maintaining muscle strength.
In addition to the above, hydrotherapy can:
- increase mobility
- reduce pain and muscle spasm
- improve and maintain joint range of movement
- strengthen weak muscle groups
- increase physical fitness and functional tolerances
- re-educate normal movement patterns
- improve balance
- improve co-ordination
- improve posture
- improve self confidence
- stimulate circulation
Hydrotherapy is an effective way to treat children with neurological and orthopaedic conditions. It is enjoyed by children because it is fun and gives them a freedom of movement only experienced in a hydrotherapy pool.
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