A leading hydrotherapy programme

Aquaphysical is based on Auckland's North Shore

WATER EXERCISE SPECIALIST – NZ UNIVERSITY, HYDROTHERAPIST SINCE 2011

Full aquatherapy training within New Zealand

Contact Kerrie Fox 0274442399 or email kerrie@aquaphysical.co.nz

Click Here for more Information on Aquatherapy training

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Made with quality Nylon & Foam. Supplied in black colour (Colour may vary slightly due to supply)

Newsletter Article: Exporing the Benefits of Hydrotherapy

Exercise has long been recommended for people with arthritis, and different forms of exercise have been found to have various benefits for arthritic hip and knee patients, including decrease in pain and stiffness, and improvement of function. Clinical experience suggests hydrotherapy has a number of benefits when compared to land-based exercises. The warm temperature of hydrotherapy pools may decrease pain and stiffness and promote relaxation, and buoyancy reduces the amount of load going through a joint. But few studies have been able to demonstrate water-based exercises are superior to other forms of exercise. Jodyn Dangen, Supervised by Dr Peter Larmer & Associate Professor Paula Kersten, School of Physiotherapy, AUT conducted a research project under an Arthritis New Zealand summer scholarship on the benefits of Hydrotherapy. Fifteen participants were recruited (twelve females, three males) from Auckland in January 2011. The participants commented on the benefits of having an opportunity to exercise in a hydrotherapy pool with the instructor. For some participants the instructor made the experience enjoyable and created a supportive atmosphere, while others found that the knowledge the instructor was able to provide was important.

Strength: Gaining strength through hydrotherapy was described by participants.

Flexibility/Mobility: Participants described feeling less stiff afterwards, or feeling more limber, mobile and flexible. 

Social: Participants, particularly in the AUT focus group, frequently described socializing and interacting with others in their hydrotherapy group as a benefit.

Psychological: Participants described psychological benefits from going to hydrotherapy.

Maintenance: Maintaining a certain level of function was seen as an important benefit by participants. Many stated they did not know how their osteoarthritis would be affecting them if they weren't coming to Hydrotherapy. Participants also stated that when the pool was closed over a summer period or for re-furbishing they really noticed a negative difference. As osteoarthritis is a progressive, degenerative disease maintenance is potentially a very important factor.

This article appeared in the December 2012 issue of the Arthritis New Zealand "Joint Support" Members Newsletter.

34.5 Degree

This temperature is designed to relax muscles and improve the circulation system. Rehabilitation programs are provided for musculoskeletal / neurological conditions such as arthritis, osteoporosis, heart problems, Alzheimers, post-polio, Parkinsons, injury and/or post surgery and more; the programs are designed to help you become more mobile and functional, and help maintain or improve flexibility, balance and strength. 

water Exercise

Water exercises includes stretching muscles, general exercise and walking in a pool. Not only will you develop stronger leg and hip muscles but it will do wonders for your cardio-respiratory fitness level. Remember that as you submerge yourself in the water, you are reducing the stress on the lower part of the body but at the same time you are increasing the resistance. Sessions are for 1 hour including warm-up, cool-down and stretching exercises. Both sides must be well stretched in turns. More about the Aquaphysical programme and what to expect from a hydrotherapy session. We have also collated a list of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs).

Benefits

Nothing is more inviting than stepping into a warm pool - and if you can get your daily dose of exercise and fitness, you couldn't ask for more. Hydrotherapy is the best way to get a total body workout without overheating. Water exercise is ideal for those suffering from arthritis. Of course, there is no denying that aquatic exercise is a refreshing activity and can be a wonderful way for family or friends to spend together. Thanks to research studies and to media reports, many people are now enjoying the benefits of water exercise, ensuring that their bodies will reap its health benefits for years to come.