Water therapy is popular with many patients because they experience a completely different physical sensation in the water. The two clinics at cereneo have a therapy pool with a height-adjustable floor and a special device to help patients get safely into the pool. Special lighting effects with different colours promote emotional well-being.
Which patients are suitable for water therapy?
Water therapy promotes balance, coordination, flexibility and muscle strength. Due to the weightlessness and water resistance, movements are much slower and there is no risk of falling. Water therapy is therefore also suitable for severely affected patients.
What can water therapy help with?
The therapists at cereneo work according to the Halliwick method. This is a special form of water therapy that was developed to help people with various physical impairments. Water therapy helps patients to better control and improve their balance and posture, reducing the risk of falling on land. The weightlessness in the water facilitates movement and stabilises the joints. Due to the natural water resistance, the exercises require more effort than on land, which helps to strengthen the muscles.
Water therapy has a relaxing effect, which has a positive impact on breathing, sleep, general well-being and motivation.
What is the Halliwick method and what is so special about it?
The core principles of the Halliwick method include reducing fear of water, improving body awareness and promoting confidence and independence. The method focuses on using specific exercises in the water to improve balance, control over one’s own body and executive functions – such as memory, problem solving, concentration on tasks and visuospatial attention.
The method involves the use of little to no equipment. It is important to note that the Halliwick method should be carried out by qualified therapists. The exact implementation of the exercises may vary depending on the person’s individual needs and progress.
What is a typical water therapy session like?
A therapy session usually lasts 40 minutes. Depending on how severely the patient is affected, the therapy takes place with 1-2 therapists. Relatives are often also involved. The exercises vary depending on the patient’s individual needs and progress.