Services
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is a specialised programme aimed at helping patients recover neurological or musculoskeletal abilities that may have been impaired due to an accident, surgery, back pain, arthritis, or other causes. It is led by our qualified exercise physiologists in a water-based setting such as a hydrotherapy pool or public swimming area. The exercises re-train your muscles and joints by using water as a resistant force that helps you control your movement as your body recovers.
What are the advantages of hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy takes place in a shallow chest-height swimming pool, with warmer water than usual (around 35 degrees). Hydrotherapy sessions can be done off-site or at home, with carefully planned and individualised programmes. These sessions are taken 1 on 1 with the practitioner, thus creating a safe environment and plenty of feedback about your quality of movement in session. Exercising in water lets you maximise your range of motion, free from obstruction and impact so you can receive full benefit. Hydrotherapy takes place in a safe and monitored setting, for your personal comfort.
What other factors should I consider?
Besides bringing the necessary swimming gear, keep in mind certain conditions that you may have, such as skin allergies, asthma, or if you are diabetic – and bring any necessary medication such as sprays or tablets. Note that if these conditions are rather serious, you might not be able to take part in these sessions. It is important to discuss – in as much detail as possible – any relevant medical conditions during the initial assessment. Questions will cover your medical history to ensure smooth flow throughout the programme, and assess whether it is a suitable activity for you. If you cannot swim, friendly therapists will guide you in a safe way to ensure that you remain comfortable during the session.
How is hydrotherapy different from regular exercise?
Exercising in water yields similar physiological effects as occurs in other environments. As you work out, your muscle temperature rises due to increased blood flow reacting with heat during contractions. The water adds a measure of light resistance to these movements, which increases the effectiveness of the workout.
The combination of exercise and warm water helps to toughen up your muscles, also improving your joint movement. You will feel just as tired as when doing more traditional forms of exercise, but this is quite normal and you will soon feel improvement following your efforts.
How does it help?
Water has several therapeutic properties to help you recover better. As you float, your muscles relax, which in turn alleviates pain from other parts of your body – especially your joints. Immersion can also improve blood flow and soften nerve endings, helping disperse painful pressure as your joints and muscles experience a soothing effect.
Hydrotherapy is most beneficial when treating joints and muscles that have been damaged, restricting your ability to move freely. You will benefit from strength-building exercises that place less pressure on your damaged joints, develop endurance, reduce pain and stress, enhance bodily control, and strengthen muscles. Your range of mobility will also grow, as stiff muscles relax and become more durable.
Compared to standard exercise routines, exercising in the water reduces the amount of stress put on your body. Hydrotherapy thus serves as a valuable stepping stone to increasing exercise tolerance and load, facilitating the subsequent transfer to land-based exercise.
