Clinical Applications
 Indications for skilled aquatic therapy*:
 · Inability to participate in a land-based exercise or functional mobility program
 · Weight-bearing restrictions limiting ambulation
 · Severe pain or weakness limiting ability to move
 · Postural and proximal instability limiting extremity exercise
 · Mobility restrictions unresponsive to conventional stretching
 · Inability to tolerate resisted exercise programs (in which distally applied
 weights pose risk to the patient with joint laxity, sublaxation and deformity,
 osteoporosis and fragile skin)
 *Source: Ann L. Charness, MS, PT, President ofthe Aquatic Physical Therapy Section, APTA
 "Aquatic environment enhances therapy for rheumatic conditions", Biomechanics Desk Reference
 
To increase and maintain joint motion
 To strengthen the muscles about the joints for better support
 To improve balance and coordination
 
Examples:
 Early post-op (orthopedic surgery)
 Sport injuries/acute injuries (ACL)
 Degenerative conditions (arthritis, rheumatic conditions)
 Even reduction of muscle tone for kids with cerebral palsy and other neurological
 conditions, pre-natal and post-natal classes, balance and falls prevention programs
 for the geriatric population
 
Goals of non-skilled aquatic therapy*:
  · Training cardiovascular fitness
 · Maintaining the flexibility, mobility, and strength gained in therapy
 · Socialization and depression management
 · Prevention of obesity (which increases the risks of hypertension, stroke, and heart disease)