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