Aquatic therapy is one of the best environments for anyone with Cerebral Palsy to improve physical functioning, especially if they are not ambulatory. What sets aquatic therapy apart from traditional physical therapy is that the water – which in and of itself is known for restorative and detoxifying properties – provides buoyancy that makes aerobic and anaerobic exercises easier to effectively and safely perform . Additionally, if the water is warm, it has a massaging effect on muscles, joints, and ligaments that often times are overused and in pain.

Aquatic therapy aims to:

• Improve physical function

• Develop and maintain physical control

• Improve psychological outlook

• Enhance self-concept and confidence

• Increase independence and quality of life

Benefits of water therapy include:

• Provides resistance

• Encourages a wider range of movement and opposition

• Alleviates stress and tension

• Reduces pain and tension in muscles and joints

• Protects against injury

• Improves cardiovascular conditioning since the heart pumps more blood per beat when body is submerged in water

• Decreases post exercise discomfort

The aquatic therapy, massage jets, and underwater treadmills are ideal for cerebal palsy patients to gain strength, and coordination. Our goal for patients with cerebral palsy is to provide them a place of enjoyment while learning to stand and walk.