PAIN-HYDROTHERAPY

SUMMARY

1. The buoyant force reduces the effective weight of the patient in proportion to the depth of water.

2. Weight-bearing loads are reduced to 40% of total body weight when standing in chest-deep water.

3. Allows for graduated loads to tissue by progressively decreasing the depth at which therapy is performed.

4. The viscosity of water provides resistance to movement equal to that of the force exerted by the patient.

5. Effects can last up to 24 months after participation in a pool-based exercise program.

6. Improvements demonstrated in pain, fatigue, cardiorespiratory fitness, balance & coordination.

Reference(s)

Cifu, D.X. (2020). Braddom’s physical medicine and rehabilitation. Elsevier. Get it on Amazon.
Cuccurullo, S. (2019). Physical medicine and rehabilitation board review. New York: Demosmedical. Get it on Amazon.
O’Young, B., Young, M.A. and Stiens, S.A. (2008). Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Secrets. Mosby. Get it on Amazon.