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What is aquatic therapy (AT)?
What is aquatic therapy (AT)?
Aquatic therapy (AT) is a form of therapy that is performed in water or an aquatic environment, such as a therapy pool. Water contains buoyancy properties that allow us to feel lighter when submerged. The buoyancy properties can help create a safe environment in which to move freely through the water when it might be difficult to move freely on land. Water can also create resistance against the body, which can help improve overall muscle strength and endurance.
What does the literature say about AT?
There is a need for more education regarding AT and its benefits in neurorehabilitation and OT
The buoyancy of water allows for resistance training and ROM exercises
AT has been shown to reduce symptoms of neurological disorders while also being beneficial for low-impact physical activity
AT can improve fatigue and balance for people who have experienced a stroke or TBI, allowing people to feel more confident during ADLs
Some qualitative studies found that stroke patients enjoyed AT and felt that it decreased their symptoms
AT can address more than just physical symptoms; it has been shown to improve the mental health and overall quality of life of stroke patients
AT has demonstrated an increase in cerebral blood flow and helps to maintain the cognition of people with Dementia
Group AT can increase social participation, which can increase quality of life
Click the link for some examples of AT exercises ➡️
Land-Based (Traditional) Therapy
Aquatic-Based Therapy
Advantages
Advantages
Small preparation time
Various options for strength and endurance training
Use gravity to help with movements
Able to use various tools or games for treatment
Advantages
Advantages
Safe environment for balance exercises
Less stress on joints
Increased cardiovascular fitness
Improved range of motion
Water can be calming and help reduce stress and anxiety
Full body exercise
The faster you move in the water, the more resistance the muscles experience
Disadvantages
Disadvantages
Fall risk can make people feel uncomfortable or anxious during tasks
More stress on joints; difficult to increase resistance on muscles
Limited accessibility for people who have trouble moving around on land
Limited range of motion for affected extremities
Disadvantages
Disadvantages
Potential for a long preparation time depending on schedule and setting
A pool may not be available in every rehab facility
Transitioning in/out of the pool could be challenging or cause anxiety
The temperature of water may not suit every patient's needs
Why is it important to learn about AT in OT?
Why is it important to learn about AT in OT?
AT can create an environment that can feel safer than land-based. Feelings of comfort can allow for more exercises to be performed during therapy. Research shows that AT is a superior intervention for supporting balance, walking, muscular strength, cardiorespiratory fitness, health-relevant physiological indicators, quality of life, and proprioception, which can all be impacted by brain injuries. AT can decrease anxiety with rehab on land, which can lead to an overall greater quality of life.
Who should not participate in aquatic therapy (AT)?
Who should not participate in aquatic therapy (AT)?
A person should consult their therapist before AT participation if they have...
A person should consult their therapist before AT participation if they have...
An open or infected wound on the skin
Intravenous lines or central venous catheters
Urinary catheters or ostomies/stomas
Urinary or fecal incontinence
Urinary tract infections
Intestinal Ostomies/Stomas or feeding tubes
Communicable diseases or blood-born communicable diseases
Skin diseases
Fecal diseases or diarrhea
Illnesses such as the flu or vomiting
Athletes foot
Renal disease
Diabetes
Pregnancy
Multiple sclerosis
Pulmonary disease
Absence of cough reflex, dysphagia, tracheostomy
Congestive heart failure, myocardial infarction, myocarditis
Deep vein thrombosis
Hypertension or orthostatic hypotension
Seizures
Autonomic dysreflexia
Hearing aids or cochlear implant
Ear infections or ear tubes
Vestibular dysfunction
Decreased sensation or decreased proprioception
Visual impairments
Weight-bearing/ROM restrictions
Medication concerns, medication patches, chemotherapy, or topical medicine
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