In our previous article, “Weightlessly achieving better therapy results”, we explored the effects of weightlessness and the Halliwick method. In this article, we focus on the holistic benefits of water therapy, addressing both physical and psychological aspects.
Physical Benefits: Holistic Muscle Training
Water therapy allows patients to move with reduced body weight, which is particularly crucial for muscle building and mobility. The weightlessness of water significantly reduces stress on joints and the spine. This characteristic enables exercises that may be painful or challenging on land to be performed more safely and effectively in water. This is especially beneficial for patients with limited mobility, such as those recovering from a stroke or living with multiple sclerosis.
Another important aspect is the improvement of core stability. The water resistance and water currents continuously activate deep muscles, which leads to improved posture and balance. This stability is particularly valuable for patients with neurological disorders, who often suffer from muscular imbalance.
Examples of Physical Exercises
Walking Exercises in Water: Strengthen leg muscles and enhance balance. The resistance of water increases the training stimulus and supports stability.
Rotations and Direction Changes: Improve core stability and train coordination skills, promoting overall mobility.
The Healing Power of Water on the Mind
Therapy in water has a calming effect. The movements, weight relief, and pleasant temperature of the water are relaxing. Many patients report feeling a sense of freedom and control through water therapy that they often lack on land. These sensations significantly contribute to the enhancement of emotional well-being by calming the nervous system and reducing stress.
The Impact of Water Therapy on Self-Perception
Through the weight relief in water and the feeling of weightlessness, patients can attempt movements that would typically be very difficult or impossible on land without robotic assistance. This not only boosts our patients’ motivation but also enhances self-esteem, alleviates feelings of anxiety, and directly influences the course of therapy and its outcomes.
Therapeutic Individualization and Tailoring Exercises to Patients’ Needs
At cereneo, we place great importance on personalizing therapies. After our patients undergo various assessments, we evaluate whether water therapy is suitable for them. This determination is influenced by several factors, including patients’ mobility, goals, and preferences. Throughout the rehabilitation process, therapy options and approaches are continually discussed and adjusted as needed, also for water therapy. Whether it’s gentle mobilization exercises, strength-oriented training, or coordinated movements, the water allows for flexible adjustments that support patients in their progress.