Hydrotherapy involves gentle exercise in a heated pool of approximately 34 degrees.

Using the benefits of a weightless environment and buoyancy, hydrotherapy is generally easier on the joints and cardiovascular system than weightbearing exercise and therefore can be an excellent option for osteoarthritis and osteoporosis sufferers. The warm water can also assist with pain relief so for this reason low back pain sufferers will often get good relief. General fitness training can be achieved in the water also, under the guidance of a Physiotherapist.

Participants do not need to know how to swim, and it is not necessary to put the head under water, or even get the hair wet.

What are the benefits of hydrotherapy?

• Relieves pain and muscle spasm
• Increases mobility, flexibility, and range of motion in joints
• Increases muscle strength, trunk stability, and tolerance to exercise
• Provides a reduction in stress in the body — and promotes relaxation
• Takes place in a social atmosphere, and aids socialisation benefits
• Cardiovascular, aerobic exercise
• Weight reduction, and improves diabetic management
• Improves balance, coordination in movement, and a reduction in falls

 

Our hydrotherapy program is a good alternative for those having difficulty walking, or wanting variety in their usual exercise program.

The types of conditions that often benefit from hydrotherapy include:

• Post-operative patients, joint replacements, post spinal surgery
• People with chronic pain, postural pain, or spinal pain
• Osteoarthritis and osteoporosis
• Those needing general improvement in flexibility, strength, and fitness
• Athletes who are unable to carry out their normal training on land
• Stroke recovery, and neurological conditions
• Cardiac reconditioning

 

Things to know...

The classes are run by a Physiotherapist and Physiotherapy Aide.

Classes are run twice a week at the Macksville Aquatic Centre hydrotherapy pool.

Generally class number is limited to six.

Approximate running time is 45 minutes/

Cost varies depending on your status; call the practice for details.

You will need a full assessment prior to attending a hydrotherapy class. Call either Nambucca Heads or Stuarts Point Physiotherapy to arrange the assessment.