Why Water Works?
Water has numerous characteristics that make it conducive to meeting treatment goals. Hydrostatic pressure is the equal pressure on all body parts that are immersed in water; this trait often helps to reduce swelling when exercises are performed below the surface of the water. When a person enters the water the hydrostatic pressure that is applied to all body surfaces creates an upward force known as buoyancy. Buoyancy decreases the forces on body tissues and reduces joint impact. It also allows exercise with decreased pain and improved mobility for those individuals who may be overweight or arthritic. It is remarkable to see how quickly patients improve when they begin aquatic physical therapy. Another characteristic of water that makes it beneficial for treatment is resistance. Water is up to 700 times more resistive than air. This resistance provides weak muscles with needed strength training. The natural properties of water allow patients to improve quicker in water than they would
