Aquatic Therapy
What is Aqua Therapy?
Aquatic therapy, which uses the pool for rehabilitation, can improve movement, strength and function, as well as reduce pain.
The unique properties of water help to facilitate mobility and exercise. Aquatic therapy is an effective treatment option for individuals with a variety of orthopaedic conditions, including:
- Arthritis
- Balance and gait disturbances
- Chronic pain
- Knee, hip and ankle injuries
- Neck, shoulder or lower back problems
- Pre- and post-orthopaedic/spinal surgeries
- Pregnancy-related low back/sciatic pain
- Sports and work-related injuries
UR Medicine offers this alternative form of rehabilitation, which can be used alongside more traditional therapies.
World-class Care
Our Orthopaedics and Physical Performance Center, located at Marketplace Mall, combines the latest in care, research and education under one roof to create a center unlike any other in the Northeast.
What to Expect from the Aquatic Therapy
If you are referred to our aquatic therapy program, you will receive an initial evaluation. Our team of licensed and Aquatic Therapy & Rehabilitation Institute-certified therapists will then work with you to develop a customized treatment program.
Our program is specifically designed to meet the needs of patients at all fitness levels and stages of the rehabilitation process. We offer services that range from individualized one-on-one care to group based fitness and wellness programs. All sessions are supervised by a licensed therapist.
Although aquatic therapy is not recommended for patients with certain medical conditions, most people can participate. Swimming ability is not necessary.
What Happens During An Aquatic Therapy Session?
All aquatic therapy sessions are held in a state-of the-art, in-ground pool heated at 92°F. Pool depths range from 3’6” to 6’6” and can be varied to best meet each patient’s rehabilitative needs and/or goals. Sessions last approximately 30 to 60 minutes.
During your session, a rehabilitation therapist will work with you to improve:
- Balance and coordination
- Body mechanics
- Endurance
- Mobility
- Range of motion
- Sports performance
- Strength
Here’s what else you should know:
- Showering is required before entering the water.
- Bring a swimsuit, towel, non-slip footwear/sandals and, if desired, goggles.
- Lockers with provided locks are available to store belongings.
What Sets Us Apart?
At UR Medicine Orthopaedics and Physical Performance, we are delivering world-class care, backed by cutting-edge science so that every body can move freely, push boundaries and live life without limits. From specialized joint care and renowned orthopedic surgeons to athletic trainers helping students prevent injury, we’re advancing care throughout the Rochester metropolitan area and surrounding region.
As part of an academic medical center, we bring scientific and clinical expertise to our programs. That includes a science-based approach that keeps you on track with measurable progress.
No matter what your goals are, we have the experience and knowledge to create a specific program based on your particular needs—safely and effectively.