Water therapy

Physiotherapists have been using water therapy, or hydrotherapy, as part of their wide range of treatment techniques for many years. Hydrotherapy takes place in a purpose-built pool. You do not need to be able to swim to benefit from this kind of treatment. Use is made of the properties of water, including its buoyancy and turbulence. You will be closely supervised by a physiotherapist with specialist training, who will design an appropriate programme of exercises.

Benefits include strengthening muscles, improving mobility, balance and co-ordination, and reducing swelling. It is also an effective method of pain relief as well as promoting relaxation and enhanced well-being. Hydrotherapy can help people with muscle and joint problems such as neck and back pain, arthritis, and those with neurological conditions such as strokes, multiple sclerosis and Parkinson's disease. It is also useful for women who are pregnant or who have recently given birth, athletes needing rehabilitation after injury and people recovering from a heart condition.