North Knoxville Medical Center Physical Therapy Provides Aquatic Therapy Pool Benefits and Exercises for Physical Therapy Patients

11/4/2024

North Knoxville Medical Center Physical Therapy is proud to announce the reopening of its aquatic therapy pool, located at the Tennova Family YMCA. The aquatic therapy pool is designed to benefit patients with degenerative joint issues, arthritis, stroke recovery, muscular dystrophy, and other orthopedic and neurological conditions. The pool offers a unique approach to rehabilitation, combining the healing properties of water with guidance from trained facilitators.

Aquatic therapy provides a safe and effective solution for individuals suffering from degenerative joint conditions and arthritis. The buoyancy of water reduces the impact on joints, allowing patients to perform exercises with ease and less pain. This low-impact environment is particularly beneficial for older adults, offering a gentle yet effective way to maintain mobility and improve strength. The therapy also reduces muscle strain, making it ideal for those needing lower muscle facilitation during exercise.

One of the unique benefits of aquatic therapy is the effect of hydrostatic pressure. This natural property of water helps to improve circulation, making it beneficial for patients dealing with swelling, such as those with lymphedema. For stroke survivors, this pressure also aids in mobility by helping to reduce swelling and encouraging circulation. Those with muscular dystrophy and similar conditions can benefit from the water’s support, which allows for greater movement and exercise than might be possible on land.

Tennova’s aquatic therapy pool offers a range of exercises tailored to both orthopedic and neurological patients, as well as those at risk of falling and paraplegic individuals. Techniques used by facilitators include:

• Ai Chi: A gentle, flowing exercise focusing on total body motion, ideal for improving balance and coordination.
• Adaptive Swim Techniques: Tailored exercises that accommodate physical limitations while building strength and endurance.
• Watsu: A relaxation method particularly beneficial for patients with cerebral palsy or those experiencing chronic pain.
• Bad Ragaz: A neuromuscular facilitation technique aimed at improving coordination and muscle control for patients with neurological conditions.

To ensure optimal care, participation in the aquatic therapy program requires a physician’s referral. Each session typically lasts between 45 minutes to an hour, with exercises designed to target the unique needs of each patient. Whether it's recovering mobility, managing pain, or improving strength, Tennova’s aquatic therapy program offers comprehensive solutions in a supportive, low-impact environment.

For more information on referrals, please contact North Knoxville Medical Center Physical Therapy at (865) 859-7950 or fax (865) 859 - 7969.

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