Downfalls of Aquatic Therapy

Welcome back! Over the last seven weeks, I have discussed the benefits of aquatic therapy for many conditions. These conditions have included: spinal cord injuries, cerebral palsy, stroke and autism. While there are many conditions that can be helped through aquatic therapy, it is not a perfect therapy. This week, I will discuss some of the downfalls of aquatic therapy.

Despite the benefits of aquatic therapy, there are some safety concerns. Because of the pool setting, there is a risk for injury or drowning. Aquatic therapists must be trained in first aid, CPR, oxygen administration, and must know how to use an automated external defibrillator. While these precautions are important in emergency situations, they do not erase the risks of aquatic therapy.  

While many conditions can benefit from aquatic therapy some, it is not suitable for everyone. Individuals with open wounds cannot participate in aquatic therapy to prevent infection. It is dangerous for individuals with uncontrolled seizure disorders to participate in aquatic therapy due to their increased risk or injury or drowning. Additionally, people with severe respiratory issues are advised not to participate.

For those interested, head over to Meghan’s blog (OTsensorysolutions.blogspot.com) to learn about sensory integration therapy. Similar to aquatic therapy, sensory integration therapy is an up-and-coming therapy that has the potential to benefit a variety of individuals. In her last blog post, Meghan discussed the benefit of sensory integration therapy for children with cerebral palsy. Head over to her blog, and give her a read!

References:

Ultimate Guide To Aquatic Therapy. (2016). Retrieved October 28, 2016, from https://www.hydroworx.com/research-education/additional-resources/aquatic-therapy-guide/

http://otsensorysolutions.blogspot.com/

Aquatic Therapy and Geriatrics

Welcome back! Last week I discussed the ways that aquatic therapy can benefit individuals with spinal cord injuries and increase their respiratory function. This week I will discuss how aquatic therapy can be used for the geriatric population.

As you age, you are at an increased risk of falling. Aquatic exercise has been used to improve balance and coordination for older adults at risk of falling. Studies show that running in deep water reduces balance sway distance and improves reaction time and movements (Becker, 2009, p. 865). Exercises in water help prevent future injuries that would require rehabilitation.

The water in the pool provides resistance which helps increase muscle strength without putting too much pressure on an individual’s joints. Many weight-bearing and high-impact exercises place strain on joints that cause lasting pain, especially in the geriatric population.  Additionally, water exercise is an exceptional form of cardiorespiratory exercise.  It is important that older adults participate in cardiorespiratory exercise to remain healthy overall.

Aquatic therapy is a low-impact form of exercise that can increase balance, reaction time, and cardiorespiratory function. It can be used to help prevent falls in older adults, and help keep them active and healthy!  Join me next week as I discuss the downfalls of aquatic therapy.

Reference:

Bruce E. Becker, Aquatic Therapy: Scientific Foundations and Clinical Rehabilitation Applications, PM&R, Volume 1, Issue 9, September 2009, Pages 859-872, ISSN 1934-1482, http://dx.doi.org/10.1016/j.pmrj.2009.05.017

Aquatic Therapy and Spinal Cord Injuries

Welcome back! Last week I discussed how aquatic therapy is beneficial for children with cerebral palsy because of the physical activity and socialization it requires. This week I will talk on the benefits of aquatic therapy for individuals who have suffered a spinal cord injury.

Spinal cord injuries are generally caused by traumatic accidents that involve bending, dislocation and hyperflexion/hyperextension of the spinal cord (Jung, Lee &Lee, 2014, p. 707). Those who have sustained such injuries have a high risk of urinary tract infections as well as spasticity and respiratory problems (Jung et al, 2014, p.707). There are various types of therapy available, but aquatic therapy has numerous benefits that cannot be ignored.

Because of the nature of water, patients are able to remain upright and move in the water without the same restrictions present on land. Additionally, therapy that takes place in the water helps increase respiratory function. A study was done to determine how aquatic therapy aids in increasing respiratory function. The subjects who partook in aquatic therapy significantly increased their respiratory function compared the subjects who participated in a land-based therapy program. (Jung et al, 2014, p.708)

Aquatic therapy provides increased respiratory function for individuals having suffered spinal cord injuries, making it a prime therapy option.  Next week I will discuss aquatic therapy in geriatrics!

Reference:

Jung, J., Chung, E., Kim, K., Lee, B.-H., & Lee, J. (2014). The Effects of Aquatic Exercise on Pulmonary Function in Patients with Spinal Cord Injury.Journal of Physical Therapy Science, 26(5), 707–709. http://doi.org/10.1589/jpts.26.707