Benefits of Hydrotherapy
- Minimal joint impact, exercise in water is easier and less painful.
- Effective pain management. Reduces joint and muscle pain.
- Reduction in muscle spasms, contractures, muscle pain and joint stiffness.
- Aids muscle recovery, through reducing inflammation, swelling and water retention.
- Enhances blood circulation.
- Greater joint mobility and muscle flexibility.
- Develops muscle and endurance strength.
Benefits of Hydrotherapy
- Develops muscle tone and helps to prevent muscle wastage associated with being wheelchair bound.
- The water environment challenges and develops balance, pelvic and core stability. Great for preventing falls and associated injuries.
- Posture correction and core strengthening, which helps to prevent injuries.
- Mental and physical relaxation, aiding sleep quality and quantity.
- The pressure and resistance of the water reduces anxiety levels, improves brain function and cognitive abilities like focus, memory, information processing speed etc.
- Develops cardiovascular fitness and helps you exercise for longer.
- Accessibility – Our Hydrotherapy pool has wheelchair access, pool ramp, aquatic wheelchairs, pool lifts and stair entry. We have manual hoist available for transfers if needed.
Aquatic Equipment
An extensive range of specialised aquatic equipment is used for providing additional buoyancy, resistance and support. Water ankle weights up to 1kg each are used during leg strengthening exercises above and below water. The resistive equipment also provides sensory input, which helps to improve body awareness, motor coordination, strength, muscle tone and cognitive abilities. Floatation rings and body slings are also frequently used during muscle stretching and strengthening exercises to ensure the client is well supported and comfortable.
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is conducted at Mary Brooksbank School at Rosemeadow within a private Hydrotherapy Pool. The pool temperature is maintained at 32-33degrees, optimal for stimulating blood circulation and enhancing muscle flexibility. 1-2 Disability Support Workers can assist with Hydrotherapy.
The Hydrotherapist ensures all clients are performing their individualised exercise program with correct technique, body positioning, breathing control to maximise safety. We welcome individuals who are PEG fed, have stoma bag, SPC and urinary/bowel incontinence. Our clients use incontinence swim wear.
