Aquatic Therapy is an alternative form of rehabilitation that allows people to exercise in a heated pool. The unique properties of water — buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure and viscosity, plus the warmth of a therapeutic pool — provide gentle resistance during exercise. Patients are able to gain strength, flexibility, endurance, and mobility in a comfortable and pain‑free environment.
There is no age limit; everyone from small children to senior citizens can take part in this therapeutic program. Aquatic therapy can benefit patients with conditions such as arthritis, back/neck pain, sprains, strains or fractures, joint pain, osteoarthritis and for individuals recovering from surgery, sports injuries, or work related injuries. Patients who have had difficulty with traditional therapy often show improvement with aquatic therapy.
Precautions:
Most people find aquatic therapy to be beneficial and enjoyable. However, there are some conditions where water-based therapy is not appropriate. Patients with the following are not allowed to participate in aquatic therapy for their protection and the protection of other patients:
No, you do not need to know how to swim to participate in aquatic therapy. Typically there is no need to submerge or get your head wet. For your safety and comfort you may use flotation devices and have direct assistance or supervision of a qualified therapist during your treatments. Please let us know before your appointment of any anxiety or concern you might have before coming to the pool.
Aquatic therapy can either be used independently or in conjunction with traditional, land-based physical therapy. An aquatic appointment is scheduled after a formal physical therapy evaluation has been completed in the clinic.
If you have any questions about our Aquatic Therapy Program or the referral process please feel free to call us at (603) 542-1878.
Valley Regional Rehabilitation Services
Valley Regional Hospital
243 Elm Street
Claremont, New Hampshire 03743
