Hydrotherapy
What is Hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is a specific treatment modality that combines the physical properties of heated water with the skills and knowledge of the practising therapist. Today, it is utilized in treating and managing many chronic conditions and diseases including arthritis, musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular events and mental disorders. Hydrotherapy is a very effective tool for long-term chronic condition management and post-injury or post-surgery rehabilitation. Hydrotherapy has just recently been acknowledged as very beneficial treatment tool by DVA.
Benefits from hydrotherapy:
- Decreased pain
- Posture benefits
- Improved mobility and flexibility
- Improved strength
- Improved balance
- Improved blood circulation
- Improved coordination
- Improved mood
- Psychological benefits
- Muscle relaxation
- Improved quality of life
Examples:
Patients with severe Osteoarthritis: Hydrostatic pressure enables people to exercise and mobilise with reduced pain or even pain free. The element water often allows patients movements, which would be impossible for them on land with pain.
Falls Prevention: A very safe environment to train proprioception and balance without the risk of injuries. This gives the patient confident.
Post-operative Rehabilitation: Mobilising and weight-bearing exercises can be done at a very early stage. In waist deep water, a person bears on 50% of its bodyweight.
Hydrotherapy can be part of a chronic disease management plan free of additional charges for Veterans with a valid D904 referral (from GP), for Medicare patients as part of an EPC-Program and for workers with a valid WorkCover referral (from GP or Case Manager) as part of a return-to-work rehabilitation program. Most Health Funds will also give rebates for hydrotherapy treatment.