Aquatic Physical Therapy

Woman and instructor in the pool

Aquatic Therapy Builds a Stronger Body

For those suffering from fibromyalgia, arthritis and low back pain or recovering from an injury or surgery, warm water therapy is a low-impact rehabilitation option that can improve range of motion, balance, strength, coordination and reduce pain.

Under the direction of a physician, North Central Health Care’s licensed physical therapist devises a treatment plan using water as both a supporting, gravity-reducing environment and a conditioning medium. The therapist uses the buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure and warmth of the water to relax muscles, support submerged joints, and reduce or eliminate axial weight bearing, resulting in a reduction of pain. With the ability to “float” the patient, the therapist is also able to use positional and ranging techniques that are impossible on land. The therapist can also employ the density and viscosity of the water to provide proprioceptive input for gait and balance training without danger of impact injury from falling, and to introduce exercises to increase range of motion, strengthen muscles and improve cardiovascular conditioning. Upon discharge, the therapist provides each patient with a self-directed exercise program for pool and home use.

For the latest information about the pool schedule, fees and rules visit here: Aquatic Schedule, Fees & Rules

Warm water therapy is beneficial because it:

  • Reduces the force of gravity that compresses joints, reducing pain.
  • Relaxes muscles and supports submerged sore joints and limbs.
  • Allows the therapist to use positional and ranging techniques that are impossible on land.
  • Increases circulation and decreases inflammation.
  • Gives resistance based on tolerance.
  • Allows therapists to work on gait and balance without risk of the patient falling.
  • Makes it easier to do exercises to increase range of motion, strengthen muscles and improve cardiovascular conditioning.

Listen to what a few of our patients have to say about their experience at the North Central Health Care Aquatic Services Program by visiting our Patient Experiences.

Balancing Therapy and Home Life

At North Central Health Care, warm water therapy patients receive individualized care from a licensed physical therapist who works in collaboration with your physician. Upon discharge, the therapist provides each patient with a self-directed exercise program for pool and home use.

Bring the following to your therapy sessions:

  • Swimsuit or shorts and a T-shirt.
  • Water shoes or slip-on shoes for the pool deck and shower room.
  • Towel.
  • Insurance card or workers compensation insurance information.
  • Doctor’s order.
  • List of current medications and over-the-counter vitamins.

Download our Aquatic Therapy Brochure.

Start the referral process for services by downloading a Referral Form.