Hydrotherapy has been used for centuries in the management of rheumatological conditions and arthritis. The warm water, buoyancy, reduced gravity and therefore reduced loading on joints allow people with a wide range of rheumatological conditions to achieve many positive benefits in the hydrotherapy pool, including:
- decreased pain
- decreased stiffness
- increased strength and range of movement
- improved function such as sit to stand, steps, walking or shoulder hand function
- improved mood, sleep, sense of well being and coping
- manage weight
- improve fitness and endurance.
Hydrotherapy can also, in some cases, be used to avoid surgery, prepare for surgery or minimise medications.
Rheumtological conditions that can benefit from hydrotherapy include:
- rheumatoid arthritis
- osteoarthritis
- ankylosing arthritis
- scleroderma
- mixed connective tissue disease
- polymyositis/dermatomyositis
- scleroderma
- sjögren’s syndrome
- fibromyalgia syndrome
- lupus
- osteoporosis
- juvenile rheumatoid arthritis
- psoriatic arthritis
- polymyalgia rheumatica
- bursitis/tendinitis.
For some, individual sessions may be necessary, others will be able to work independently once a program has been designed and taught to them, or some may benefit from a class situation. If your arthritis is mild-moderate you may be able to attend Physio-fit classes to improve your fitness. Others may need to start with a slower program incorporating pain management, range of movement and strength Move 4 Balance classes and gradually progress toward an aerobic program P.A.C.E (People with Arthritis Can Exercise classes. Please contact us to discuss what option will best sit your needs.