Aquatic therapy is a proven, low-impact treatment option that takes place in a warm-water pool, allowing patients to move more freely with less pain and pressure on their joints. This water-based approach to physical therapy is especially effective for those recovering from surgery, living with arthritis, or managing chronic conditions. By using the therapeutic properties of water, aquatic therapy helps improve range of motion, build strength, and support faster, safer recovery—all in a comfortable and controlled environment.
Aquatic Therapy for Pain Relief and Recovery
Aquatic therapy - also known as hydrotherapy - is a powerful rehabilitation tool that combines physical therapy techniques with the natural resistance and buoyancy of water. It’s ideal for patients seeking a low-impact, pain-reducing environment to restore strength, mobility, and function.
Benefits of Aquatic Therapy
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Low-Impact Environment: Water’s buoyancy reduces stress on joints and the spine, making movement easier and less painful.
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Pain Reduction: Warm water helps relax muscles, decrease inflammation, and relieve pain.
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Improved Mobility & Balance: The natural resistance of water enhances coordination, strength, and stability.
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Faster Recovery: Supports post-operative and injury recovery by allowing earlier movement with less strain.
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Safe & Supportive Setting: Ideal for individuals with balance challenges or fear of falling.
Conditions and Symptoms Treated
Aquatic therapy is effective in treating a wide range of musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, including:
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Arthritis and joint pain
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Post-surgical recovery (e.g., hip, knee, spine)
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Chronic back or neck pain
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Fibromyalgia
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Stroke or neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson’s, MS)
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Sports injuries and overuse conditions
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Balance and gait disorders
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Muscle weakness or stiffness
Who Can Benefit from Aquatic Therapy?
Aquatic therapy is suitable for people of all ages and activity levels, including:
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Athletes: Helps with recovery from sports injuries or intense training by promoting movement without added strain.
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Post-Op Patients: Supports safe, early rehab for patients recovering from orthopedic surgeries such as joint replacements or spinal procedures.
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Geriatric Patients: A gentle and safe option for older adults to increase strength, flexibility, and confidence.
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Individuals with Chronic Pain: Provides relief for long-term pain sufferers without exacerbating symptoms.
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Neurological Patients: Enhances motor control and balance for those with neurological conditions in a safe, controlled setting.
Why choose us?
When you choose
Kelly Hawkins PT for your care needs, you are choosing a team dedicated to providing the support and healing needed to get you back to your best. Our therapists will develop a personalized treatment plan unique to your needs leveraged through leading, outcomes-driven techniques intended to improve movement and overall function goals.
About our team
Our physical therapists are specially trained in a range of specialties. We will also work collaboratively with your support network - from primary doctors to collegiate athletic trainers - to help you safely return to your day-to-day life while optimizing performance and preventing re-injury. We treat patients of all ages, and we pride ourselves on ease of access, convenience, quality of care, and a positive family-friendly environment.
At physical therapy appointments, we encourage patients to wear comfortable clothing that enables free movement and that allows the therapist access to the injured body part. Most patients wear athletic clothes to their appointments.