When discussing modalities for training and rehabilitation, a broad spectrum must be considered. In the variety of treatment and training that exists, overlooking aquatic therapy and specifically, underwater treadmill training, is certainly an error. This article will reveal whether using one, available at Fyzical Therapy and Balance Centers (Downtown Sarasota), is the right choice for you.
Due to the inherent buoyancy offered by water, a higher degree of freedom is offered to individuals otherwise restricted to certain movements on land.
For example, if recovering from injury, the use of an underwater treadmill may offer a more efficient recovery, both short, and long term. The water aspect reduces stress on the body, reducing pressure inflicted on the spine and joints. A therapeutic effect from the heat and hydrostatic pressure is also present.
One could ask, “can’t I just swim in a pool and get the same benefit?” It is true there exists significant benefit from say, simply swimming or doing basic exercises in your pool at home. However, there is a significant difference. First, during treatment, you are under supervision of a PT, allowing for a controlled environment for safer, more effective training. Furthermore, one can effectively initiate specified gait training in a minimal impact environment (whilst more accurately mimicking land-based walking). As well, you don’t have to worry about falling while doing this gait training. Multiple other benefits exist, which will be discussed later in the article.
-Hydroworx.com
According to the National Council on Aging, “1 in 4 adults over 65 fall every year”. Strength and gait training is crucial for preventing a fall. However, in many instances land-based training may be counterproductive for patients.
This is where the consistent use of an underwater treadmill enters, serving as a highly effective tool in fall prevention. While at the same time, maintaining or improving general health.
In fact, it is so effective that top athletes have incorporated it into their training, including Olympic long-distance champion, Mo Farah, using it in conjunction with land-based running (2-4 sessions/week).
Heres a video demonstration: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J8hJ_6h4jP8
Who may benefit from incorporating underwater treadmill therapy into their lifestyle?
-Individuals at risk of falling
-People recovering from injury or surgery
-All age groups
-Athletes
As it stands, most individuals, whether they require rehabilitation or not, would benefit from its use. What are some proven benefits of using this device? According to Hydroworx, it:
-Improves cardiovascular strength (Vo2 Max), at a lower cost to your joints.
-Strengthens muscles remarkably (with less perceived muscle soreness).
-Increases range of motion.
-Increases healing and strengthening of injured tissue.
-Reduces blood pressure (according to a Texas A&M study).
-Prevents or lowers risk of future injury.
-Helps with weight loss.
https://www.hydroworx.com/about-hydroworx/superior-technology/underwater-treadmill/
-Hydroworx.com
These devices are unquestionably a remarkable and useful training tool, too often overlooked. It is clear many of the beneficial effects of exercise are enhanced, and potential negatives, reduced. Hydroworx’s variation allows for ease of entry, customized training settings, monitoring, and a high degree of safety.
The treadmill is connected to a recycling system, emptying, filtering, and re-filling for every patient, ensuring cleanliness. The glass walls allow the physical therapist effectively monitor the patient, bettering the treatment.
Underwater treadmills make incorporating advanced aquatic therapy more accessible. In short, most everyone stands to benefit from its use. It indeed does make exercise, the epitome of rehabilitation and injury prevention, more attainable for all.
Fyzical Therapy and Balance Centers, Sarasota Downtown (1727 2nd St, Sarasota), offers a state of the art, freestanding Hydroworx underwater treadmill pool, as referenced in the images above. Book a session Monday-Friday (8AM -5 PM) by calling 941-951-0170.
https://www.fyzical.com/sarasota-downtown
This material is presented for informational and educational purposes only. This information does not constitute medical advice and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. You should always seek the advice of a physician or other qualified health care provider before beginning any exercise program. FYZICAL MAKES NO WARRANTIES, EXPRESS OR IMPLIED, THAT THE INFORMATION CONTAINED IN THESE MATERIALS WILL MEET YOUR NEEDS.