Benefits of Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is a form of aquatic physiotherapy. Our team at Malvern East Physiotherapy conducts hydrotherapy in the specific warm water pool at Harold Holt Swim Centre on a Friday morning. We will be recommencing hydrotherapy with Vernon Mittal with our Covid-Safe plan on the 18th of February.

What are the benefits of hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is great for individuals who are significantly limited to exercising on land. This can be due to a number of reasons including high levels of pain, joint symptoms or surgical restrictions. It is commonly utilised as part of the rehabilitation process post-operatively but has great benefits in the lead up to surgery to maximise strength and flexbility. In some cases, it can be a great form of regular preventative exercise for individuals who a significantly limited to land-based exercise.  

How does hydrotherapy work?

Using the unique benefits of water, hydrotherapy can be incredibly beneficial.

The buoyancy of water supports the body, decreasing the amount of stress and force going through your joints. The depth of the water affects the amount of weight that can be reduced. When standing in different depths, it alters the body weight that is going through the body. For example, when standing in waist deep water, you off-load 50% of your body weight. These changes in force can allow you to perform movements and exercises with less discomfort and greater ranges of motion.

In addition, the water temperature in the hydrotherapy pool varies between 30 – 35 degrees. The warmth of the water can not only reduce pain and stiffness, but can improve circulation resulting in decreased swelling. The constant pressure provided by water also provides a mild compressive effect. This aids circulation and lymphatic drainage that can promote faster healing and recovery. The deeper the body part is in water, the greater the pressure and compression. This is often why hydrotherapy can be very beneficial in the recovery of lower limb injuries or surgery around the foot, ankle and knee.

How do I start hydrotherapy?

Prior to getting into the water, your physiotherapist will complete a comprehensive land-based assessment onsite at the clinic. This will ensure that we can safely get into the water with a tailored and safe program.

Importantly, regardless of your swimming history, hydrotherapy can be done safely. It is usually very uncommon to submerge your head under water. Your feet are also regularly on the floor ensuring that regardless of your swimming capacity it can be done safely.

What if I can’t get to the pool on a Friday morning?

We are currently utilising the Hydrotherapy pool on a Friday morning. We understand that this timetable doesn’t always suit everyone’s schedule. If you are unable to attend the pool on a Friday, please contact us for an alternate arrangement. Our team can organise alternate options including telehealth which we have done successfully with pool closures.

To learn more if hydrotherapy could be of benefit, contact our team today. To organise your initial hydrotherapy appointment at the clinic book online. To learn more about hydrotherapy, call our friendly team.