Hydrotherapy and its Benefits

Hydrotherapy is a form of physical therapy performed in water. The buoyancy, resistance and temperature of water are ideal for therapy, allowing easier movement and less strain on the body.

Hydrotherapy can be a great low-impact activity for those who live with pain, have weakness or low fitness, or cannot safely perform traditional resistance training on land.

At Patches, our Exercise Physiologists offer hydrotherapy, with individually designed programs tailored to the client’s goals.

Benefits of Hydrotherapy

• Pain management: the buoyancy of the water supports the body, reducing the stress on joints and muscles. Warm water also helps to relax muscles, aiding in pain reduction.
• Strength building: the water provides resistance which helps build muscle strength. Great for those who cannot safely perform weightlifting or resistance training on land.
• Improved mobility: water resistance provides effective way to improve joint mobility and flexibility. The water supporting the body’s weight also can help to increase the range of motion in the joints.
• Balance improvement: individuals can practice balance and coordination with the support of the water. Movement of the water can also add difficulty to balance, forcing the core muscles to work harder.
• Enhanced circulation: warmth of water promotes blood circulation, aiding in healing and reducing inflammation.
• Stress reduction: water can help reduce stress and promote relaxation.

What does Hydrotherapy treat?

Hydrotherapy can benefit a range of acute, chronic health and musculoskeletal conditions, including:

• Neurological conditions: Parkinson’s Disease, Neuropathy, Multiple Sclerosis, Cerebral Palsy
• Arthritis: Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Ankylosing Spondylitis
• Musculoskeletal conditions: Low back pain, Fibromyalgia
• Injury or post-surgery rehabilitation

Hydrotherapy can also be suitable for clients in need of gentle exercise or may be unable to safely or effectively perform exercise on land, including:

• Elderly
• Pregnant
• Overweight
• Anyone wanting to improve fitness and mobility

Exercise Physiology at Patches

The Patches team of Accredited Exercise Physiologists (AEPs) are experts in designing, adapting and delivering safe and effective exercise interventions, including hydrotherapy, for a range of age groups and abilities. Services may be in-clinic, at home, in community or via telehealth, according to your needs. NDIS, Aged Care (CHSP funded) and private clients are all welcome.

For more information about Exercise Physiology at Patches, click here.