Physical therapy is often needed after an accident or surgery. It can help you regain strength and mobility in the affected area by working on range of motion, flexibility, and strength. It can also help improve your balance and coordination, reduce pain, speed up your recovery, and prevent further injuries. Many people think of physical therapy as done in a hospital or clinic, but more people are doing physical therapy at home with the help of a certified physical therapist.
Additionally, hydrotherapy, or water therapy, can be part of your physical therapy treatment plan. It can be done in a pool, spa, or bathtub. With this, your physical therapist may recommend aquatic massage or water exercises, depending on your needs. Given these, here’s what you need to know about doing water therapy at home:
Convenience of Therapy at Home
One of the main benefits of doing your physical therapy at home is convenience. You can do it in the comfort of your own home whenever is most convenient for you. There’s no need to worry about traffic, parking, or scheduling appointments around other activities. You can also take your time and go at your own pace. Moreover, it offers you privacy as you don’t have to share the therapy space with others and can enjoy the whole pool by yourself.
Cost-Effective Solution
Another advantage of doing your water therapy at home is that it’s a cost-effective solution, especially if you have a chronic condition that requires long-term physical therapy. The initial investment in a hot tub or pool can be offset by the money you save on transportation, co-pays, and missed work. Likewise, you and your family can still enjoy the pool even long after you’ve recovered from your injury or surgery, making it a wise investment.
Maintaining Your Saltwater Pool for Water Therapy
Maintaining your pool is important if you plan to use it for therapy. It’s necessary to always keep the water clean and free of debris so they don’t affect you as you swim. Likewise, if you don’t pay attention to your water quality, you may experience skin irritation, allergies, or other health problems, which are commonly caused by imbalances in your water’s salt or pH levels. You can avoid these issues by hiring experts who offers lowering pool pH services and provide more convenience in maintaining your saltwater pool. This will help you avoid problems with the pool water quality and ensure your swimming pool is a comfortable environment for therapy.
Easier to Move in Water
Water therapy is a great option if you have trouble getting around or have limited mobility. The buoyancy of the water supports your body and helps you move with ease. This makes it an excellent option for people with arthritis, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injuries. Moreover, the water’s resistance helps you build strength and improve your range of motion. For example, if you have arthritis in your knees, moving in water can help reduce the pain and swelling but still provide you with a workout. This will help you maintain your mobility and improve your quality of life.
However, you should be careful when doing water therapy if you have limited mobility. Ensure your therapist knows your limitations and that the exercises are appropriate. You must proceed with your therapist’s assistance, so you’re comfortable moving in the water and learn how to stay safe as you progress through your treatment plan.
Promotes Overall Health
Water exercises are a great way to improve your overall health. They help you burn calories, tone your body, and reduce stress. In addition, they provide a low-impact workout that is gentle on your joints. Common water exercises include swimming, water aerobics, and water walking. These exercises are ideal for people of all fitness levels. However, you must follow your therapist’s recommended treatment plan so you don’t overdo it and cause further injury.
Boosts Relaxation
First and foremost, water exercises provide a distraction-free environment to focus on your body and breathing. This can be especially beneficial for people who suffer from anxiety or depression. Additionally, water exercises help you release endorphins, which promote a sense of well-being and can improve your mood. Likewise, being in the water can be calming, providing a respite from the stresses of daily life. Depending on your water temperature, it can also help you relax your muscles and ease the pain. For example, immersing yourself in hot water can help relieve tension headaches, while cold water can help reduce inflammation.
Home water therapy can offer several health benefits for patients. Alongside your physical therapy plan, home water therapy can help you recover and improve your fitness level. If you are considering home water therapy for yourself or a loved one, you can always speak with your doctor to discuss the most suitable treatment plan.
