aquatic physiotherapy

Question 1

list some uses/ values / aims of aquatic physio

Answer 1

-relief of pain
-ease of mvt
-reduction of muscle spasm
-reduction of swelling
-resistance of mvt
-enhanced relaxation
-enhanced CV fitness
-improved posture

Question 1

what are the disadvantages of AP?

Answer 1

-fear of water
-treatment time limitations
-possible infection spread
-difficulties isolating certain movements

Question 2

what is the recommended temp of pool for AP?

Answer 2

32-36 degrees

Question 3

what % weight bearing are you with chin vs chest vs up to the hips immersed in water?

Answer 3

• chin - 10%
  -chest - 30%
  -hips -50%

Question 4

what is buoyancy?

Answer 4

the upthrust effect of water acting on the body
it depends on both the relative density of the object & the hydrostatic pressure force being exerted upon it

Question 5

what are the CVS effects of AP?

Answer 5

-30% in CO
-50% increase in SV
-no change in HR
-30% reduction in peripheral resistance

Question 6

what are examples of changes in response function in ap?

Answer 6

-positive pressure impact of water on our chest - breathing against a positive pressure - diaphragm moves upwards
- FRC drops
-ERV drops
-airway resistance increases

Question 7

what are examples of contraindications to aquatic physiotherapy?

Answer 7

-patients with open wounds
-incontinence
- poorly controlled epilepsy
- recent history of heart attack, pulmonary embolism, DVT (due to increase in venous return) etc
-acute vomiting or diarrhoea
-chlorine or bromine sensitivity
-resting angina
-shortness of breath at rest
-advanced renal failure
-poorly controlled epilepsy - light on water can have an impact - seizures

Question 8

what are the benefits of AP for people with rheumatic disease?

Answer 8

-relief of pain and stiffness
-decrease swelling
-muscle strengthening
-relaxation
-correction and prevention of contractures