Aquatic Therapy

Aquatic therapy benefits both neurological and orthopedic patients. Some patient’s conditions may benefit more from Aquatic Therapy than traditional therapy. Aquatic therapy
is ideal for many patients as it may allow a patient to do more exercise with less pain and fatigue due to the water’s buoyancy and support.

Aquatic Therapy is instructed by a Physical Therapist or Occupational Therapist who is in the water providing
one-on-one service. To participate in the program you
do not have to know how to swim.

Benefits of Aquatic Therapy
• Decreases pain, stiffness, muscle spasm guarding;
• Improves posture, balance and coordination;
• Enhances relaxation and freedom of movement for
• increased muscle tone;
• Increases circulation, range of motion, strength and
• endurance;
• Better mobility through reduced joint strain;
• Stronger moral and self-esteem with the increased opportunity to succeed;
• Enhances sensory feedback and body awareness;
• Improves muscle tone and strength; and
• Improves endurance.

United Hospital System’s Aquatic Therapy is in conjunction with land-based treatment. The program
is offered 1-2x/wk and is instructed by skilled therapist in Physical and Occupational Therapy. The therapist is in the water and provides one-on-one service. To participate in the program you do not have to know how to swim. The water depth ranges from zero to five feet. Aquatic Therapy is a service that is ordered by a physician and most insurance companies are reimbursing for this service. If you are interested in this program, please call the Rehabilitation Department at (262) 656-3282.