MASSENA, NY – If the idea of feeling weightless to relieve joint pressure or body pain sounds perfect, aquatic therapy may be just what the doctor orders.
Aquatic therapy is offered at Massena Hospital’s Outpatient Center, 269 Andrews Street, Massena. A provider’s referral is required for patients to receive aquatic therapy, which is a form of physical therapy that takes place in the indoor, private pool.
“You do not have to know how to swim to receive this therapy,” noted Director of Rehabilitation Services Eileen Fregoe, PT. “The pool has three depths (3'6", 4'4", 6'), and exercises can be done in any of the levels. Floatation devices are available if a patient needs one to use in the deep end.”
Aquatic therapy is performed on a one-to-one individualized treatment plan basis between the patient and a trained physical therapist or physical therapist assistant. It may be used as a stand-alone treatment, or as a transition to a land-based therapy program, based upon a patient's condition.
“The therapist does not get in the pool with the patient, but rather directs and supervises that individual during the entire course of treatment,” Ms. Fregoe said.
Water’s natural properties create an ideal therapeutic environment in the following ways:
Water therapy may be helpful for people suffering from the following conditions: arthroscopic surgery recovery, balance disorders, bursitis, cerebral palsy, chronic pain, idiopathic joint pain, joint reconstruction surgery recovery, joint replacement surgery recovery, lower back pain, osteoarthritis, orthopedic injuries, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, rheumatoid arthritis, sprains and strains, stroke, tendonitis, or traumatic brain injury.
Prior to and following aquatic therapy, patients are provided with a changing and shower area at the MH Outpatient Center.
“We have a private bathroom, as well as two private shower rooms available for changing. Patients are required to shower from the neck down while in their bathing suit or swim clothes prior to entering the pool to rinse off any lotions, detergents, etcetera,” Ms. Fregoe said.
To learn more about all Physical Rehabilitation services offered through St. Lawrence Health System, visit https://www.stlawrencehealthsystem.org/services/physical-rehabilitation.