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	AQUATIC THERAPY How Water Can Work Wonders
-- October 10, 2006 - AQUATIC THERAPY How Water Works Its Wonders Rehabilitation utilizing the wonders of water has proven to be a powerful tool. Rehabilitation in the water works because of its four wonders, buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, resistance and sensory stimulation. The combination of all four enhance the benefits of aquatic therapy. Buoyancy Water diminishes the effect of gravity. When submerged to shoulder depth, our bodies experience a 90 percent apparent weight loss. Movement in a full weight-bearing medium often limits active range of motion. In the water, patients can move without joint stress and increase flexibility because buoyancy assists movement. This allows for a much earlier rehabilitation for patients with limited weight bearing capabilities such as post operative knees. Limitless joint angles and planes of movement can be accomplished which could not be achieved our of the water. Because of buoyancy, the pool is perfect for those experiencing pain. Water decreases joint compression forces and force reactions, and therefore lessens arthritic, back, chronic pain, or pain caused by surgery or injury. Hydrostatic Pressure Movement is also less painful because of hydrostatic pressure. Hydrostatic pressure tends to decrease edema and increase circulation to deep muscle groups. Hydrostatic pressure also assists in stabilizing unstable joints. Water supports the body and eliminates the need for walking aids. It slows a possible fall and therefore allows those with slow reactions time to recover. Hydrostatic pressure on the chest wall stimulates chest expansion and deeper ventilation, which increases cardiorespiratory activity. With sedentary patients, there is a gradual decline in vital capacity. Movement in the water can improve it. Resistance Muscular strength and tone will improve from working against the variable water resistance. To achieve similar results on land, highly sophisticated weights with multi-vector applications would be necessary. The more force used against the water, the more "weight" the water carries. Moving through the water resistance requires co-contraction of the abdominal and back muscles, thus teaches central stabilization. Balance, proprioception and coordination can all be improved. Movement in the water can have a positive effect on osteoporosis and bone density. It was once thought that heavy impact was necessary to maintain youthful bone density. It is now understood that working against resistance is what is required. It can be the impact of the floor, lifting weights or moving with force through the water. Sensory Stimulation Sensory stimulation of the water increases kinesthetic awareness of body parts and allows us better orientation of ourselves. The stimulation of the water also promotes and allows for greater relaxation. As one can easily see the benefits of water are indeed a wonder. The use of water for rehabilitation allows not only earlier intervention but also leads to an earlier discharge. The paradigm is shifting where aquatic therapy is in the front line of the therapeutic arsenal not waiting in the wings only as an act of desperation.
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