Benefits of Hydrotherapy

What are the actual benefits of hydrotherapy? We know that

kids love being in the water, but does it actually lead to functional gains?

Listed below are some top reasons why some parents have found that hydrotherapy

for their child has been beneficial.

Fun

It is mentioned above but most children love to be in the

water. This can change a challenge of coming to a therapy session to THE

anticipated event of the week. The fact that kids find hydrotherapy fun, isn’t

simply a motivating factor (though it definitely helps). Studies show that when

you are actively engaged in an activity and having fun, this results in better

retention of motor patterns and development of neural patterns. This means that

skills learned within a fun environment are more likely to be retained.

Physiologically affects on the body

The warm water environment that is typically used for

hydrotherapy sessions has a physiological impact on the body. It affects the

cardiovascular system, lymphatic system as well as providing consistent

pressure and tactile sensation to all submersed parts of the body. This can be

beneficial for individuals with sensory processing challenges as it provides

the additional sensory input that the child needs in order to best learn and

function. The warm water also has the ability to reduce tone, spasticity, rigidity

for individuals with neurological conditions. Finally it is easier to move your

body within a water environment, meaning individuals who are very weak will

have more success building strength and endurance in the water environment.

Secure Environment

The last point we will make today, is the water can be seen

as a safe environment. For individuals who are scared of falling, or have

abnormal unexpected movement patterns. The water can be a very reassuring place

to learn skills as they are less likely to hurt themselves if something

unexpected happens. This can be a good place to introduce new skills, refine

and then transfer to the above ground environment.

When it comes down to it like all things, it is very

individual. Some children really thrive in learning new skills in aquatic

environments whilst others may receive more therapeutic benefit with land

therapy. Usually it is best practice to have a goal of consistently

transferring skills learnt in an aquatic environment to land to ensure the

retention of skills but there are exceptions to this rule.