At our three Centers for Health and Wellness, aquatic therapy is an additional physical therapy service that promotes functional development, balance, and coordination.
Mercy aquatic therapy can benefit patients in many ways. The program, for patients with orthopedic injuries or arthritic conditions, focuses on improving movement dysfunction by utilizing the buoyancy and resistance of water. By using water as a treatment, the rehabilitation process for patients is often shortened. After a physician's referral, each patient is evaluated and an individual treatment plan/goal is developed and supervised by a physical therapist.
The benefits of aquatic rehabilitation include:
- decreases pain
- increases balance/coordination
- improves cardio conditioning
- buoyancy provides assistance or resistance
- buoyancy decreases effects of gravity/reduces weight-bearing stress on joints
- increases ROM and flexibility
- increases strength
- eliminates risk of injury
Features of aquatic therapy:
- warm water pool
- water depths 3 to 5 feet
- average temperature between 88-90 degrees
- entry includes hydraulic chair lift or steps with railings
- lifeguard on deck
- locker rooms and family changing areas
- chemicals electronically regulated and manually checked
- amenities include towels, body shampoo, hair dryers and suit mate
If desired, upon completion of physical therapy, a transitional program is available at the Mercy HealthPlex. Patients can continue their exercise programs on their own or in a variety of aquatic classes. With a HealthPlex membership, patients also have access to gym equipment and other fitness programs. Those with orthopedic, spine or balance conditions particularly benefit from warm water therapy, available with a physician's order.
