05 Feb Hydrotherapy Sessions

The use of water for various treatments (hydrotherapy) is probably as old as mankind. Hydrotherapy is one of the basic methods of treatment widely used in the system of natural medicine, which is also called as water therapy, aquatic therapy, pool therapy, and balneotherapy. Use of water in various forms and in various temperatures can produce different effects on different system of the body. Many studies/reviews reported the effects of hydrotherapy only on very few systems and there is lack of studies/reviews in reporting the evidence-based effects of hydrotherapy on various systems. Hydrotherapy is the external or internal use of water in any of its forms (water, ice, steam) for health promotion or treatment of various diseases with various temperatures, pressure, duration, and site. It is one of the naturopathic treatment modality used widely in ancient cultures.

Exercising in water reduces the loading through joints and the warmth of the pool also provides the therapeutic effects of heat. Children through to elderly clients may enjoy the benefits of therapeutic exercises in water. Water can be used to assist or resist movement depending on the individual’s injury, level of fitness or stage of rehabilitation. This makes it a versatile means of therapy.
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People wishing to access the pool for hydrotherapy will require a land-based appointment with one of our Physiotherapists or Exercise Physiologists first. This will assist in developing baseline measures, setting goals and creating an individualised program to complete in the pool. It will also allow us to screen for any medical conditions that may require medical clearance before you can begin hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy is available individually or in a small group.

Some examples of clients that may benefit from hydrotherapy are;​​

• Clients with arthritis
• Post joint replacement (e.g. hip, knee or shoulder)
• Following reconstructive joint surgery (e.g. shoulder, knee or ankle reconstruction)
• Clients with neurological conditions (e.g. Parkinson’s Disease, Stroke, Multiple Sclerosis)
• Children with physical disabilities or delayed development
• Clients with chronic pain
• Following injury (including sport, work or motor vehicle accident)

If you are interested in accessing one of our hydrotherapy services please contact Integral Home Care for more information or to book your initial assessment.

In Australia, 72% of people aged 15 and over with a disability do not get enough physical activity.

Get outside
Participants can spend more time outdoors – playing sport, swimming, going to the park or beach, or even just generally exploring. Getting more physical activity is easier when you’re enjoying yourself. IHC staff can help you to plan your activities and facilitate the same.

Our friendly staff can be fun
Having company when you exercise can also be highly motivating.
“Our participants go to the pool and gym on a regular basis because of the trust and confidence they build, both with staff and other gym and pool users”.

Besides the physical benefits of exercise, moving more can improve mental health and provide more opportunities to try new experiences. It is particularly important for people with disabilities in overcoming the additional hurdles they often face.