Managing arthritis symptoms. Rehab before and after surgery. Treating musculoskeletal injuries. If you need help with any of these issues, aquatic therapy from a physical therapist can help.
Aquatic therapy has several benefits when used in individualized therapy plans. Water exercises can be performed by patients who may not be able to support their full body weight on dry land. The natural resistance of water can help speed the rehabilitation process by promoting the strengthening of muscle. The buoyancy effect of water helps reduce pain in aching muscles and joints. There are three exercises that your physical therapist may have you do to take advantage of these aquatic therapy benefits.
- Water walking or jogging
The first aquatic therapy exercise that your physical therapist may recommend is water walking or jogging. For this exercise to be most effective, the water height should be between your waist and chest. Begin the series of exercises by:
- Taking a series of 20 steps forward
- Going in reverse by taking 20 steps backward
- Then finishing by jogging in place for 30 seconds
The resistance of the water may make the steps more difficult, but the hydrostatic pressure of the water keeps you upright and relieves pressure on the joints. Increase your speed to get a more difficult workout exercise.
- Deep-water bicycle
As the name implies, this aquatic therapy exercise is performed in the deeper end of the pool. Loop enough pool noodles behind your back to support your body weight. Then simply move your legs as if you were riding a bicycle in three- to five-minute intervals.
- Pool planks
Planks are a great series of exercises to increase core strength, and it can be easily modified for use in the pool. To begin the pool plank, lean forward into a plank position while holding on to a pool noodle. Keep your feet on the pool floor and your elbows straight as the pool noodle is forced under the water. Try maintaining a straight body position to engage and strengthen your core. Hold for 15- to 60-second intervals depending on your core strength.
Peak Performance can help you learn the most beneficial aquatic therapy exercises
The ultimate goal of aquatic therapy exercises is to help patients return to their daily activities on dry land. Our physical therapists at Peak Performance can create a personalized aquatic therapy treatment program that can help you regain your quality of life. We also offer free screenings to help you begin your therapy process and virtual care so you can get help without leaving your home.
Are you ready to start getting effective physical therapy? Contact us today for more information about all the services we offer or to schedule an initial appointment.
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