Aquatic Therapy

Where's the proof?

As Aquatic Therapy grows in popularity so does the research support its effectiveness. One study looked at individuals diagnosed with either hip or knee osteoarthritis. The study was designed as a randomized controlled trial with 71 subjects. Each was assigned to a group that received either 6 weeks of aquatic physical therapy or no aquatic physical therapy. Pain levels, physical function, physical activity levels, quality of life, and muscle strength were used as outcome measurements. Subjects in the group who received aquatic physical therapy showed significant pain reduction, increased strength, improved physical function, and increased quality of life. Hinman R, Heywood S, Day A. Aquatic physical therapy for hip and knee osteoarthritis: results of a single-blind randomized controlled trial. Phys Ther. 2007;87(1):32-43