Part and parcel of client recovery from significant injury is utilizing devices and exercises that, when combined in a positive programmatic manner, will lead to improvements. Of course, the nature of an injury might disqualify a client from being able to use a piece of technology. Yet there is another avenue that is as innate to us as anything and can provide remarkable results for clients—aquatic therapy.
Johns Hopkins Medicine notes the lessening of pain and spasms that warm water may provide, along with a lessening in weight bearing, which eases the joints. When our bodies move within water, we feel more buoyant and lighter. The kind of strain we might place on our muscles when moving in a dry environment does not necessarily have the same effect within water. A study conducted in 2020, concluded a “significant” improvement in balance and gait measures, noting aquatic therapy may improve motor functions and daily living after a traumatic brain injury. The water loosens the muscles, and lessens the feeling of weight as one walks. Through this, clients can have a marked impact on their recovery, regardless of the specifics of injury.
For example, Cheyne Clark, a QLI client in mid-2024, sustained a relatively complete spinal cord injury. This rendered him with little to no movement felt in his lower extremities. To help tap into his love of adventure, the team engaged the scuba diving instruction team at DiVentures, where Cheyne dove, supported. During the dive, Cheyne began to kick his legs outward, mimicking a swimming motion. This
action was something that he couldn’t replicate in a dry setting. Of course, when the lower extremities move, it is an opportunity for the body to stretch, and for temperature regulation (which can be impacted after a spinal cord injury) to be kindled.
Further, client Dough Bish utilized the swimming pool in QLI’s Durham Center. There, he could regularly move through exercise routines with life path specialist Isaiah Keck. Leaping out of the water in sustained reps, Doug also lifted water-weight dumbbells high above his head, all with little support. This was a contrast to other environments. The water aided Doug so well and he was able to walk up the pool stairs to his powered wheelchair.
Through equipment like the Hydroworx, QLI clients can have paired aquatic therapy with a technology that acts as an underwater treadmill. Adjustable to various heights, these can track client data and progress.
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Categories: Aquatic Therapy