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Aquatic exercise programs offer improvements in fitness and physical functioning for people in a fun and dynamic environment that helps break the monotony of standard exercise routines. Improvements in balance, strength and endurance have been noted in people who participate regularly in aquatic exercise programs. As with most subjects concerning fitness and physical therapy however, one approach rarely offers the complete solution for everyone. The following will attempt to outline where aquatic therapy fits into a well balanced exercise/rehabilitation program.
A commonly seen condition that often comes up in the conversation of aquatic exercise programs in osteoarthritis. Osteoarthritis is a condition that affects the joints of the body and can be a source of significant pain and functional limitation. Exercise is a commonly prescribed treatment for this condition but difficulty arises with choosing the proper type of exercise program that offers relief without aggravation of symptoms. Aquatic therapy offers numerous benefits with regards to addressing the needs of this population. In the aquatic environment, a person experiences less compression of the joints secondary to the buoyancy of the water which results in increased exercise tolerance without aggravating the symptoms of their arthritic joints. Secondary to their ability to tolerate more exercise and movement, these people can achieve greater gains in range of motion, endurance and strength that they otherwise could not achieve performing a land based exercise program solely.
Another group of people that can benefit from participation in an aquatic exercise program are those who suffer from the neuromuscular condition- multiple sclerosis. Those with this condition are sensitive to increased body temperature and often experience severe fatigue as a primary symptoms of their condition. However, it has also been shown that these people benefit significantly from a well structured exercise program. Aquatic exercise offers this population a viable exercise opportunity that allows them to maintain a cooler body temperature and moderate their intensity level in a manner that prevents adverse effects associated with fatigue while maximizing benefits.
As previously discussed, aquatic exercise programs offer people a powerful tool for improving their physical functioning. However, given the amount of variables that exist between individuals, it is important that people who wish to gain the maximum benefit of aquatic exercise consult with a physical therapist who can design an appropriate program that addresses all of their individual needs appropriately. Also, consulting with a physical therapist can offer you the ability to learn of facilities that offer the appropriate equipment and resources to achieve all of your exercise and rehabilitation needs. Aquatic exercise can and should be seen as a valuable tool that, when implemented appropriately, can achieve maximal gains in a fun and dynamic environment.