By Meredith Kendrew
When it comes to movement and rehabilitation, sometimes the best place to start isn’t on land, it’s in the water.
Hydrotherapy, also known as aquatic or pool therapy, is a form of physical therapy that uses warm water to support movement, build strength, and ease discomfort. Unlike swimming or aqua aerobics, hydrotherapy focuses on slow, controlled exercises that use the resistance and buoyancy of water to restore mobility and confidence.
Why It Works
Water offers something unique that land-based exercise can’t replicate: support. The natural buoyancy of warm water reduces pressure on joints and muscles, allowing you to move more freely and with less pain. Meanwhile, water resistance helps to gently strengthen muscles, improve balance, and increase joint stability—all while reducing the risk of injury.
The Science Behind the Soak
Warm water triggers powerful physiological responses. As your body adjusts to the heat, blood vessels dilate and circulation improves, helping muscles relax and recover. This enhanced blood flow brings oxygen and nutrients to sore or damaged tissues, aiding healing and reducing stiffness.
There’s also an emotional benefit. Warm water encourages the release of endorphins, your body’s natural “feel-good” hormones, which can help relieve pain, reduce stress, and support overall wellbeing.
Who It’s For
Hydrotherapy is particularly beneficial for people recovering from injury, managing chronic pain, or living with musculoskeletal or neurological conditions. It’s often recommended for:
- Arthritis and Osteoarthritis: Gentle movement in water reduces pain and stiffness while improving joint function.
- Rheumatoid Arthritis: Helps decrease joint tenderness and improve upper body strength.
- Spinal Cord Injuries: Supports mobility training, improves cardiovascular fitness, and helps manage muscle spasticity.
- Lower Back Pain: Reduces pain and improves movement confidence.
- Parkinson’s Disease: Enhances balance, coordination, and functional mobility when used alongside land-based exercise.
The Takeaway
Hydrotherapy isn’t just about exercise, it’s about reconnecting with movement in a safe, supportive environment. For many, it provides a way to rebuild strength, restore function, and rediscover the joy of moving without pain.
If you’re curious whether hydrotherapy could help you, speak to one of our Accredited Exercise Physiologists. We’ll assess your condition, goals, and comfort level to create a personalised program that meets you where you are.
References:
- Hydrotherapy improves pain and function in older women with knee osteoarthritis: a randomized controlled trial
- The benefits of hydrotherapy to patients with spinal cord injuries
- The effectiveness of hydrotherapy in patients with chronic low back pain
- The Effects of Hydrotherapy on Balance, Functional Mobility, Motor Status, and Quality of Life in Patients with Parkinson Disease: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
- The Effectiveness of Hydrotherapy in the Management of Rheumatoid Arthritis: A Systematic Review
- A Study of Hydrotherapy and Its Health Benefits