Do you have pain in your joints or muscles? Do you want to feel better and move more easily? Aquatic therapy at Astera Health can help!
Since 2016, we’ve used water to help people of all ages manage pain, build strength, and move better. We use a warm water therapy pool at the Maslowski Wellness and Research Center to increase the effects of our therapy. There has never been a better time to take to the water!
What Is Aquatic Therapy?
Aquatic therapy is a type of physical therapy that takes place in water. The warm water helps your body relax and move more easily. Many people say they feel less pain and more freedom in the water. Our trained physical therapists help guide you through fun and gentle exercises. These are made just for you and your health needs.
How Aquatic Therapy Helps with Pain
Water has special properties that help with pain management. Here’s how:
Buoyancy (Floating)
- Water helps take pressure off your joints.
- You feel lighter, so it’s easier to move.
- This can reduce pain in your knees, hips, and back.
Water Pressure
- Helps reduce swelling in your legs.
- Keeps blood moving so you feel better.
- Can help calm nerves that feel too sensitive.
Water Resistance
- Water pushes back when you move, which helps build strength.
- In aquatic therapy the faster you move, the more it works your muscles.
Warm Water
- The heat helps relax your muscles.
- It feels soothing, like a warm bath.
Better Body Awareness
- You can see your movements in the water.
- This helps people who have trouble knowing where their feet are.
All of these things help you feel less pain and move more freely. This is why aquatic therapy is great for arthritis, fibromyalgia, injury recovery, and more.
Aquatic Therapy for Everyone
People of all ages can enjoy aquatic therapy! Kids love the water and often see it as play, not therapy. We can help children improve their strength and balance while having fun.
We also offer a special moms’ class throughout the year. This is for expecting mothers and shows how water can help with strength and pain during pregnancy.
What to Expect During a Session
When you come for aquatic therapy at Astera Health, we ask that you arrive 15 minutes early, already dressed and ready to get in the pool. The therapist will start your session with a warm-up, often walking in the water to help your body adjust and relax. From there, you’ll begin doing specific exercises that match your goals, like building strength or improving your range of motion. At the end of your session, you’ll cool down by floating in the deep end of the pool. This helps take pressure off your back and legs and is a great way to reduce pain before you leave. We also recommend bringing a bottle of water so you can stay hydrated after your session.
Ready to try Aquatic Therapy?
If you want to manage pain, move better, and feel great, aquatic therapy at Astera Health is a smart and gentle way to do it. Call us today at 218-631-3510 to learn more or schedule with your primary care provider to discuss referral options.
You’ll be amazed at what water can do! Remember to follow Astera Health on social media for important health and wellness updates.
