Most people don’t like to be under pressure or deal with resistance from something, but these are two forces that are a huge benefit of aquatic therapy.
“Hydrostatic pressure is the pressure exerted by a fluid at equilibrium at a given point within the fluid, due to the force of gravity. Hydrostatic pressure increases in proportion to depth measured from the surface. This is due to the increasing weight of fluid exerting a downward force from above.” The force/pressure being put on the body, greatly enhances venous return and cardiac functions. Buoyancy also assists with venous return by counteracting the downward pull of gravity with the up-thrust of the water. With increased venous return, you can exercise more vigorously with less stress on the cardiovascular system and reduce training heart rate. Another benefit of hydrostatic pressure, swelling is reduced in the injured or edematous joints or limbs below the water. As you can see, being put under this type of pressure allows you to work harder with less symptoms.
Resistance of the water will make you stronger because it provides about 12 times the resistance of air. The resistance of water also allows improvement in balance, sensory awareness, and strength in all muscle directions. The turbulence of the water and resistance during movements puts more demand on your balance and promotes circulation. Patients feel safe in the water due to their movements are slower and less likely to be jerky or ballistic.
With the assistance of therapeutic water temperature, buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, and the normal resistance of water, aquatic therapy patients can get a workout without feeling like they are doing a workout. So embrace the “pressure” and push through the “resistance” and jump into a fun, strengthening aquatic program at ProActive Physical Therapy and Sports Medicine.