Hydrotherapy

We Offer Hydrotherapy in Townsville

For Arthritis, Asthma, Injuries & More

PhysioCare Townsville offer hydrotherapy; water-based therapy and exercise that is designed to reduce impact on the joints and help to relax muscles. Hydrotherapy has been shown to be a valuable addition or alternative to land-based treatment for a wide variety of conditions, including:

Arthritis (osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis).
Acute and chronic back and neck pain.
Peripheral musculoskeletal pain; for example, shoulder impingement or anterior knee pain.
Post-orthopaedic surgery, such as a hip or knee replacement, ligament reconstructions or rotator cuff repair.
Post-neurosurgery, such as spinal fusion or laminectomy.
Neurological conditions, for example CVA, multiple sclerosis or fibromyalgia.
Chronic respiratory issues including COPD and asthma.
Acute sports injuries.

To find out more about hydrotherapy, or book an appointment at our Townsville clinics, contact our team today. Call (07) 4417 8900.

What’s Involved in a Hydrotherapy Session?

Here at PhysioCare Townsville, a hydrotherapy session may include stretching, strengthening, functional training, balance, core strengthening and cardiovascular fitness training. A physiotherapist or physiotherapy assistant conducts the sessions, which usually last between 30-45 minutes for an individual session.

Water provides a unique environment for exercise, and three key properties of water are used to great advantage during hydrotherapy sessions:

The warmth of the water (usually about 33°C) is used to relax tight muscles and loosen up stiff joints.
The buoyancy of the water minimises the effect of gravity and decreases the stresses placed on joints during movement. People who are unable to support their body weight on land are able to exercise more effectively in the water.
The resistance provided by the water is used to modify exercise intensity. Water provides varied resistance to exercise depending on the speed of movement and the shape of the body part being moved.

Exercises can be individually tailored to each participant, to allow for all ability levels and treatment goals. They can start with very basic exercises for the weak or deconditioned person, and progress to high level sports-specific drills for the sports-person keen to return to high level training and competition. To find out more about hydrotherapy at PhysioCare Townsville, get in touch today.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is a form of physical therapy that uses water for pain relief and treatment. It has been used for centuries to help alleviate various pain types and promote relaxation, flexibility, circulation and general wellbeing. It can be beneficial for those with arthritis or osteoporosis as it supports the joints, reduces impact forces on the body and increases circulation to reduce pain and inflammation. It can also help to improve cardiovascular fitness, strength and balance.
How can hydrotherapy assist those suffering with asthma or other respiratory conditions?

Hydrotherapy can help asthma sufferers by helping to reduce inflammation of the airways, increasing lung capacity, and reducing stress levels. This can be achieved through warm water breathing exercises and massage jets stimulating the respiratory system. Additionally, hydrotherapy helps improve overall physical fitness, which can further benefit those with asthma. However, it is important to note that hydrotherapy should not replace other forms of asthma treatment, and it is best used in combination with other treatments.
Do you need to swim in hydrotherapy?

No. Hydrotherapy does not require swimming, although some forms may involve gentle movements in the water. Hydrotherapy can include massage jets, ultrasound treatments and other mechanical forms of stimulation.