Aquatic therapy is a great option for individuals who are unable to exercise on land as they can improve their strength and endurance to recover or improve from their condition. But patients may feel anxious about starting a therapy session, and certain medical conditions may require your physician’s advice for a safe therapy session.
The following are some things you should know before getting ready for aquatic therapy:
Medical Conditions Like Epilepsy
If a person with epilepsy wants to swim, then they should consult their physician first. The risk of an epileptic seizure leading to water inhalation may be too high for your physician to feel comfortable recommending aquatic therapy as a treatment option.
If the condition is stable with medications and/or a medical device, and you have not had a seizure in a long time, then your physician may allow this with guidance. There are certain guidelines established by The International League Against Epilepsy (ILAE) for people with epilepsy to follow if they want to be in a pool.
Abnormal Mental Health
When considering aquatic therapy for rehabilitation purposes, for people with abnormal mental health issues, first you need to consult their physician on whether it is safe for them or not. If the physician gives the okay sign, then they can start their sessions with someone always present with them during the therapy session. Also, it is important for them to avoid situations that may trigger panic attacks.
Wound, Incision, or Open Sore
Open wounds are a temporary aquatic therapy contraindication. The patient with a wound may have to wait until it heals or wrap the wound in a wet technique fashion to reduce the risk of infection. Permission from your physician is important because there are chances for infection and slow healing of the wound.
Water Quality And Temperature Level
If you are someone that has allergic reactions to chlorine, then you should totally avoid this, unless there is a certain percentage of it you can tolerate. Even then you will need permission from your physician before proceeding.
The temperature of the water varies according to the patient’s condition. This is to ensure that the therapy treatments are delivered appropriately.
Diabetes
People with diabetes can definitely benefit from aquatic therapy programs. Aquatic therapy is relatively safe and you may have an increase in blood circulation. The chance of getting hurt during exercise is also nil.
Other medical conditions
Swimming pools expose swimmers to a range of bacteria, including cryptosporidium, which can cause life-threatening symptoms in people with compromised immune systems. People with cancer, HIV, and other immunodeficiencies may be advised against aquatic therapy for this reason.
The following are some conditions where aquatic therapy may not be recommended for you:
- Currently taking medication that could alter cognition
- If you are currently pregnant and experiencing complications
- People with Hepatitis A
- High fever
- Has Hydrophobia (A serious fear of water)
- COPD or other similar respiratory issues
Takeaway
Aquatic therapy is an extremely safe, fun, relaxing therapy program. Nevertheless, there are always some things that you need to take into consideration before starting any kind of therapy. If you want to know more about aquatic therapy, ask your primary care physician or consult with an orthopedic physician related to your concern.