Published 27 May 2022
Hydrotherapy pools are a great option for many who require low-impact movement and support to help improve injuries and get you moving.
What is hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is a form of supervised physiotherapy to assist your return to optimal function after an injury.
Hydrotherapy involves completing exercises in warm water. It uses the benefits of water properties such as buoyancy to support your weight in the water, the resistance and pressure exerted by water and the warmth to assist in the management of a range of conditions such as osteoarthritis, chronic pain or post-surgery rehab.
A Physiotherapist can provide guidance on different exercises in the pool based on your ability and needs.
What are the benefits of hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy can be used to increase strength, improve balance or manage sore joints, and your general fitness. Exercises in water are gentler on joints than land-based exercises.
Other benefits of hydrotherapy include:
- Improved blood circulation
- Relaxes muscles
- Decreased swelling
- Reduces pain
- Increased movement of joints
- Increased joint flexibility
- Weight loss
What exercises do you do in hydrotherapy?
Exercises can involve the use of different equipment such as:
- kick boards
- steps
- noodles
- floatation devices
- flippers and paddles
Is hydrotherapy recommended for everyone?
Hydrotherapy is not recommended for anyone with open wounds. Speak to Geelong Physiotherapy to see if hydrotherapy is suitable for your physiotherapy needs.
I can’t swim, can I still do hydrotherapy?
You don’t need to be able to swim to participate in hydrotherapy. Most pools will have varying depths and allow the ability to complete exercises while standing in the water.
Is hydrotherapy covered on my extras?
Many GMHBA extras covers include a benefit for group hydrotherapy classes as part of physical therapy services. View your cover in the online member area or contact GMHBA for more information on benefits.
Where can I find more information about hydrotherapy?
GMHBA-owned Geelong Physiotherapy run regular sessions at St John of God Hydrotherapy Centre in central Geelong (80 Myers Street). Get in touch with Geelong Physiotherapy for more information or speak with your own physiotherapist for advice on hydrotherapy and your needs.
