During my Level 2B Fieldwork we get to see some of my clients, both pedi and adults, in the pool! Did you know that you don’t need to be certified in aquatic therapy in order take your clients into the pool?
The pool is used as a functional modality, much like the same way we would use NMES or Ultrasound with a client. Let’s take a look at some of the principles of of pool itself!
BUOYANCY – force acting in opposite direction of gravity
Benefits: body weight support, supports weekend muscles, ease of handling, reduces fear of falling
HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE – the force exerted on immersed body; with the greatest amount of pressure at the feet compared to the shoulders
Benefits: decrease pain and edema, increases venous return and circulation, decreased HR (raises BP)
RESISTANCE – viscosity and drag forces
Benefits: movements affecting muscle tone and balance
WHO CAN BENEFIT FROM AQUATIC THERAPY?
Sensory disorders
Limited ROM
Weakness
Poor motor control
Pain
Spasticity
Balance deficits
Orthopedic/Polytrauma
BASICALLY EVERYONE
PRECAUTIONS
In order for someone to participate in aquatic therapy, they have to first be cleared by their physician to participate. You can't put someone in the pool for therapy without that order. Some things to make note of when work with your clients: autonomic dysreflexia, orthostatic hypotension, hydrophobia, sensitivity to heat/humidity, etc.
CONTRAINDICATIONS
For the safety of your client, and others that you are treating, it is important to be mindful of some factors that would not warrant aquatic therapy services: uncontrolled seizures, incontinence, open wounds, tracheotomies, NPO orders, DVT, or individuals that are combative or have poor cognition (this is not an exhaustive list).
Here are a few of the clients dx. that I have seen in the pool: CP, genetic conditions with abnormal tone/movement patterns, OA, SCI, CVA, SMA, SPD. The aquatic environment is great for increase a clients ROM, decreasing edema, and for providing proprioceptive. The warmth of the water combined with the hydrostatic pressure is also a great way to increase arousal in those who may have low tone or sensory modulation difficulties (think proprioception).
Have you ever used Aquatic Therapy?! If not, what’s holding you back from trying it out?
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