The Australian Physiotherapy Association has defined aquatic physiotherapy to avoid confusion in defining the roles of aquatic professionals and to guide medical professionals and the general public to determine the role of the said scope of practice.
Aquatic physiotherapy involves individual assessment, diagnosis, and use of clinical knowledge in coming up with a treatment program designed specifically to address the needs of the client. They are also in charge of conducting reassessment measures when deemed necessary.
Aquatic physiotherapy aims to assist with the rehabilitation of various systems of an individual. They can also assist the client in maintaining a certain level of function and prevent possible deterioration after an injury. Aquatic physiotherapy may use individual or group treatment depending upon the needs of the client.
· Here are the forms of treatments used in aquatic physiotherapy:
· Individual Aquatic Physiotherapy: this form of treatment may involve the use of manual skills, facilitation of movement patterns, and motor relearning.
· Aquatic Physiotherapy Group Programs: Conducted with clinical groups wherein participants are required to follow specific movements designed for their development.
· Aquatic Physiotherapy Classes: This program incorporates a program that specifically meets the needs of a client that can be related to pregnancy, general fitness, and movement management for the elderly.
· Physiotherapy Prescribed Exercise Programs: Aside from these monitored programs, physiotherapists may prescribe different programs for their clients depending upon their needs. The fulfillment of these activities is integrated into their overall participation in developmental programs.
Water Exercise Services
Water exercise, from the term itself, is an exercise that is conducted in water that aims to enhance body strength, conditioning, flexibility, and general fitness. These exercises are performed under the supervision of exercise professionals and can contribute largely to the client’s overall wellbeing.
Here are the programs that fall underwater exercise services:
· Individual Water Exercise: clients are assessed and instructed to carry out activities that are designed for their needs.
· Water Exercise Classes: can be offered in classes that are prescribed to clients with a general goal.
· Aquatic Personal Training: Used to enhance training and fitness.
Swimming Activities
Here are the different swimming activities that are offered in a hydrotherapy pool:
· Learn to Swim: Swimming lessons that can cover all age groups and are usually done in a hydrotherapy pool for various reasons including the pool design and temperature control.
· Therapeutic Swimming: This can be used by physiotherapists as a part of their rehabilitation program for a wide range of purposes including fitness, weight loss, strength, and conditioning.
· Swimming for People with Disabilities: Physiotherapists are informed with the appropriate knowledge on how to effectively deal with and manage swimming for people with disabilities. Physiotherapists may prescribe appropriate equipment to be used in the process.
