Aquatic Physical Therapy
Recover, strengthen, and move with confidence—right in the water.
Aquatic physical therapy, also called hydrotherapy, uses the natural properties of water to help patients recover from injury, manage pain, and improve strength and mobility. Exercises are performed in a warm therapeutic pool, allowing for safe, low-impact movement that reduces stress on joints and muscles.
What is Aquatic Therapy?
Aquatic physical therapy combines traditional physical therapy exercises with the supportive, resistance-filled environment of water. Pools are heated for comfort, allowing for:
- Reduced joint stress and pain
- Improved circulation and muscle relaxation
- Increased ease of movement for patients with limited mobility
Therapists guide patients through strengthening, stretching, and balance. Depending on your needs, aquatic therapy can be:
- A primary therapy for conditions like arthritis, post-surgical rehabilitation, or chronic pain
- A preparatory therapy to safely build strength before progressing to land-based exercises
- A preparatory therapy to safely build strength before progressing to land-based exercises
- A primary therapy for conditions like arthritis, post-surgical rehabilitation, or chronic pain
Why Aquatic Therapy Works
Water provides a naturally therapeutic environment that enhances every movement:
- Buoyancy – Decreases pressure on joints and soft tissues, allowing pain-free movement.
- Resistance – Offers gentle, consistent resistance in every direction to build strength and stability.
- Hydrostatic Pressure – Aids circulation, reduces swelling, and supports balance and body awareness.
- Warm Water – Relaxes tight muscles, eases pain, and promotes flexibility.
These properties make aquatic therapy ideal for anyone needing low-impact, supportive rehabilitation that encourages progress at a comfortable pace.
Who Benefits from Aquatic Physical Therapy?
Aquatic therapy is ideal for patients with conditions that make land-based therapy difficult or painful, including:
- Post-surgical patients: Hip, knee, shoulder, or spine surgeries
- Joint injuries: Arthritis, sprains, or strains
- Neurological conditions: Stroke, Parkinson’s disease, or balance disorders
- Chronic pain: Low back pain, fibromyalgia, or other musculoskeletal conditions
- Sports injuries: Athletes recovering from injury who need low-impact strengthening
- Limited mobility: Patients who need support to perform exercises safely
The Benefits of Aquatic Physical Therapy
Post-Surgery Recovery with Aquatic Physical Therapy
What to Expect in Aquatic Therapy
During your first visit, a licensed physical therapist and care team will:
- Evaluate your condition and discuss your goals
- Design a personalized aquatic exercise plan
- Guide you through each movement of your pool exercises to ensure safety and proper form
- Progress your exercises as your strength, balance, and mobility improve
- Provide home exercises and education for continued recovery
Most patients experience reduced pain, improved mobility, and faster recovery, whether aquatic therapy is their main treatment or part of a broader rehabilitation plan.
Locations Near You
Start Your Aquatic Program Today!
The Therapy Network’s aquatic physical therapy can help you regain strength, reduce pain, and return to daily activities in a safe, supportive environment.
Appointments available today in Norfolk, Virginia Beach, and Chesapeake
Call 757-496-3700 or Book an Appointment to get started.