Interested in working with a physical therapist for pool therapy? Pool therapy can be a great alternative to traditional exercises on land.
Conditions such as severe arthritis, joint replacements, or nerve conditions can make land-based physical therapy painful, difficult, or even impossible.
At Preferred Rehabilitation, our physical therapists offer professional pool therapy near Lincoln Park, MI, and the surrounding areas. Our physical therapy professionals are trained and experienced, and are committed to innovative methods for your recovery.
Contact us today to book an appointment with our physical therapists near you.
What is Pool Therapy?
Pool therapy, or aquatic therapy, offers a unique, effective path to recovery. It removes the limitations of gravity, which reduces pain and makes it easier to move.
Pool therapy doesn’t involve swimming. Instead, it uses the properties of the water, along with the guidance of a trained physical therapist, to facilitate strength-building movements. These movements would be difficult or even impossible if done on land.
Pool therapy works due to three main factors:
Buoyancy
The buoyancy of the water counteracts gravity, which lifts a significant amount of weight off the joints, muscles,and bones. As a result, you may be able to practice more challenging movements like walking or squatting without the pain of full weight-bearing. Your physical therapist will guide you through all movements in the pool.
Hydrostatic Pressure
In pool therapy, the pressure of the water around the body reduces swelling. It essentially acts like a compression sock, naturally helping to decrease edema in the joints and soft tissue. The result is improved circulation, better pain management, and faster post-surgical recovery.
Resistance
Pool therapy also provides a natural, even amount of resistance during exercises. This allows you to safely and slowly build muscle. It also makes it easier for your physical rehab therapist to guide you through a full range of motion. With pool therapy, you can avoid the jerky or strained movements that are common with land-based strength-building.
When Should You Choose a Physical Therapist Who Offers Pool Therapy?
Pool therapy is best for certain conditions. To decide if it’s the right fit for you, it’s important to meet with a professional physical therapist to get properly evaluated. In general, pool therapy is best for:
1. Severe Pain Conditions
Arthritis, severe joint pain, or a chronic musculoskeletal pain condition are often too painful to treat with land-based exercises. Inflammation and swelling is common, so the buoyant environment of the pool is a better alternative.
Your physical therapist will start with low-impact exercises to build your strength and increase your range of motion. They’ll use pool therapy to slowly build up your strength and create a foundation for long-term pain management.
2. Neurological & Mobility Issues
Physical therapists may also recommend pool therapy for a number of neurological and mobility issues, such as:
- Cerebrovascular Accident or Stroke
- Multiple Sclerosis
- Amputations
- Paralysis
- Balance Disorders
For these conditions, the density of the water provides sensory feedback and support. This feeling of support can reduce the fear of falling and improve confidence over time.
3. Post-Surgical & Injuries
Pool therapy also works well for pre or post surgical rehabilitation, such as after knee, hip, or back surgery. It also works well for recovery after a work or auto-related injury.
Your physical therapist can start you on pool therapy much earlier than land-based therapy. As a result, you can speed up your recovery timeline, which reduces the formation of scar tissue.
Contact Our Physical Therapists For Expert Pool Therapy in Lincoln Park
At Preferred Rehabilitation, our physical therapists are dedicated to improving your quality of life. Our team offers a range of services, from pool therapy, traditional physical therapy, myofascial release therapy, and more.
We believe in an innovative approach to rehabilitation. We’ll work closely with you to develop a personalized treatment plan that integrates a variety of approaches.
Our rehabilitation therapists will make sure your rehabilitation path aligns with your unique goals, lifestyle needs, and work-related requirements.
Want to learn more about our physical therapists near Lincoln Park, MI? Call us at (313) 928-0700 or contact us online to book your appointment today.