Aquatic Therapy

Aquatic therapy is a specialized form of physical and occupational therapy conducted in a pool or aquatic environment. It leverages the properties of water, such as buoyancy, resistance, and pressure to aid in rehabilitation and improve physical and sensory function.

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Aquatic therapy is beneficial for all children! However, it has been found to be very successful for children with neurological conditions such as cerebral palsy, spina bifida, and brain injuries. It is also highly effective for those recovering from orthopedic surgeries or dealing with musculoskeletal conditions like scoliosis. Children with development delays, including those on the autism spectrum, can benefit from the sensory-friendly environment of the pool. Additionally, those with muscle spasticity or tightness, respiratory conditions like cystic fibrosis or asthma, and those struggling with obesity or weight management can find great relief and progress through aquatic therapy.

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Benefits of Aquatic Therapy For Your Child:

• Buoyancy: reduces weight-bearing stress on joints and muscles
• Resistance: provides gentle strengthening exercises
• Hydrostatic Pressure: reduces swelling and promotes circulation
• Warmth: relaxes muscles and increases blood flow
• Improved Balance and Coordination: allows for a safe practice without fear or falling
• Pain Relief: offers comfort and eases pain during therapeutic exercises
• Enhanced Range of Motion: improves flexibility, crucial for post-surgery or conditions like cerebral palsy
• Improve regulation and sensory overload

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Our aquatic therapy sessions are held at Hippo in the Bathtub's private pool which has been specially designed for therapy. It is a 40-48 foot salt water pool, kept at 87-90 degrees Fahrenheit (30-32 degrees Celsius). There is a walk-in entrance with the deepest part of the pool being 4 feet deep (waist level). Our therapists have received additional training and qualifications in order to run these 1:1 in-water Aquatic Therapy sessions.

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