Physical therapist helping girl in pool

Physical therapy performed in a water-filled pool is called aquatic physical therapy or, simply, water therapy. At Kadlec, our trained and licensed physical therapists and physical therapy assistants may perform your therapy in a pool in order to help: 

  • Promote muscle relaxation
  • Facilitate stretching 
  • Reduce pain

The buoyancy, support and accommodating resistance of the water enhance exercise and create a safe environment for progressive rehabilitation. 

One advantage of having therapy in a pool is the water’s buoyancy. It decreases stress on your weight-bearing joints, such as the lower back, hips, knees, ankles and feet. Other benefits of doing therapy in a pool include: 

  • Increased circulation
  • Enhanced muscle relaxation
  • Better pain management 
  • Increased strength, endurance, coordination and balance 
  • Increased range of motion

Water therapy may also be a good option to help you get moving again soon after surgery.

Water therapy is beneficial in treating a wide range of illness and injuries, including:

  • Arthritis
  • Fibromyalgia
  • Chronic pain
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Back pain
  • Recovery from surgery or injury
  • Balance or walking problems