Prins (1999) Aquatic therapy in the rehabilitation of athletic injuries

Samenvatting: Aquatic Therapy in Athletic Injury Rehabilitation

Aquatic Therapy Benefits in Rehabilitation Aquatic therapy, a valuable method in the rehabilitation of athletic injuries, uses the physical properties of water to facilitate healing and exercise. The buoyancy of water reduces the effects of gravity, allowing for less stress on injured areas. This approach is particularly beneficial in the treatment of shoulder girdle, elbow, radioulnar joint, wrist, hand, cervical spine, lumbar spine, knee, hip, thigh, and foot injuries. The viscosity of water provides accommodating resistance, which is key for muscle strengthening and rehabilitation. This form of therapy not only aids in joint mobility and muscle strengthening but also offers advantages in cardiorespiratory fitness.

Implementing Aquatic Therapy For effective rehabilitation, a comprehensive approach is necessary. It involves initial evaluations, aquatic assessments, and monitoring changes in strength and range of motion. Aquatic therapy can be the sole method of treatment or part of a transition from or to land-based therapy. This versatility makes it suitable for a wide range of athletic injuries.

Aquatic Therapy Versus Land-Based Therapy Aquatic therapy’s unique environment promotes early return to functional activity, often accompanied by reduced pain and discomfort. It’s an ideal choice when land-based programs don’t yield satisfactory results. The variety of exercises available in aquatic therapy, tailored to individual needs, plays a crucial role in effective rehabilitation.

Keywords: aquatic therapy, athletic injuries, rehabilitation, water buoyancy, muscle strengthening, joint mobility, cardiorespiratory fitness, treatment versatility.