What makes aquatic therapy different from land-based modalities?
Four aspects of water set this experience apart. They are hydrostatic pressure, buoyancy, resistance, and warmth. The hydrostatic pressure of the water surrounding the body helps blood circulate from the legs to the heart, often helping to reduce swelling in the ankles and feet. Buoyancy provides assistance and support. It lessens gravitational forces on the body and better supports limbs that are less able to bear weight. Joint compression and pain diminish. You move more easily in water warmed to your exact body temperature. In this gravity-lessened and supportive environment, individuals working to develop improved body awareness and related skills such as breath control, balance, coordination and gait are also likely to benefit. The water’s resistance may promote musculoskeletal shifts that improve balance, postural control, and trunk stability. Muscule strength may be increased in all ranges. Clients generally experience enhanced sensory awareness. Warm water softens connective ti
