Water Therapy

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KEY POINTS

• Water therapy is a form of exercise done in a pool and supervised by a physical therapist. Your provider may be able to refer you for this kind of physical therapy, depending on your condition.
• Water therapy puts less stress on joints, improves blood flow, and strengthens muscles.

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What is water therapy?

Water therapy, also known as pool therapy or aquatic physical therapy, is a form of exercise and rehabilitation that you can do in a pool. Many people swim or exercise in a pool, however, water therapy is done under the supervision or direction of a trained physical therapist.

When is it used?

Water therapy can help you if you have health problems such as:

• Pain, weakness, or limited range of motion
• Nerve and muscle problems such as cerebral palsy or a stroke
• Poor balance
• Osteoporosis (weak bones)

It can help if you:

• Are recovering from an injury or surgery
• Have had a joint replacement
• Are obese
• Are pregnant
• Have low back pain

Water therapy may not be right for you if you have:

• A bladder control problem
• A contagious disease, such as a cold, flu, or hepatitis
• Sensitivity to heat or humidity
• A wound, rash, or skin problem, such as psoriasis
• Uncontrolled seizures, unstable angina (chest pain), or uncontrolled diabetes

As with any exercise program, check with your healthcare provider before you start. Your provider may be able to refer you for this kind of physical therapy. It's a good idea to check with your insurance company about your coverage for water therapy.

How does water therapy help?

There are 3 ways water therapy helps:

• When you are in the water, there is less weight and stress on your joints. This means that you may be able to exercise in the water with less pain.
• Moving in water is harder than moving in air. Have you ever tried to walk or run in a pool? By pushing against the water, you strengthen your muscles.
• Exercising in warm water can improve blood flow, which can help lessen swelling.