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Hydrotherapy.


Hydrotherapy is fast becoming the treatment of choice when faced with the early post-surgical or “deconditioned” patient. The deconditioning process occurs “naturally” when there is any pain syndrome and it results in the loss of muscle strength, joint flexibility and a loss of normal function. In many cases, the patient is unable to exert the effort necessary to reverse this “deconditioning” process, particularly through normal “on land” exercise programs. The Medical Practitioner, Physiotherapist/Clinician and, most of all, the patient, get frustrated by the lack of progress. This may lead to further slowing of the recovery process, as the patient loses motivation. A solution is necessary.

In the past few years, Clinicians have started using water therapy to begin the slow recovery process. It was, once upon a time, a last resort when the patient wasn’t recovering, but now, it has become the frontline attack! Physiotherapists, Clinicians and Hydrotherapists have been able to speed up the recovery process by getting the patient involved in “Hydrotherapy” programs, a water based exercise regimen.

It works by using the effects of turbulence, buoyancy and warmth to reduce the levels of pain, spasm and discomfort, often brought about by exercising on land. After assessment of the patient’s condition, the Therapist devises an appropriate individualised exercise routine for that patient, and the recovery process is commenced.

Hydrotherapy can be used for:

strengthening muscles;

mobilising;

relief of pain syndromes;

the promotion of relaxation;

improving fitness levels;

developing confidence with activity; and

developing better musculoskeletal co-ordination.

Many types of conditions benefit from hydrotherapy, in particular:

neck and back pain sufferers;

post surgical patients;

sports injuries;

work related injuries; and

arthritic conditions.

Hydrotherapy should no longer be thought of as a "last resort" but another form of treatment that can be used as an adjunct to our other modalities, to help our patients recover quickly and with less frustration.

The concepts presented here are entirely the author's own (unless expressly stated) and do not represent the thoughts or ideas of any other person.

© Charlie Kornberg. All rights reserved. No part of this web page, or related accompanying pages, may be reproduced without the prior permission of the Author.