20 Jun 2012 Water provides relief for physical therapy patients

by Lee Hogan

Many see the pool as a form of relaxation and rest, but for some, it’s a means to a better life.

Physical therapists at Conway Regional Health and Fitness Center are helping individuals reach a better life through therapy in the water.

The team of therapists sees a variety of issues from its patients, ranging from conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia and recent surgeries. They also see a variety of patients. 

Julie Shock, a physical therapist at Conway Regional, has treated patients ranging in age from 12 to 90 years old. 

What used to be seen as a last resort after patients had exhausted all other options, water-based physical therapy has become a more viable option. Shock believes the more proactive approach and being able to reach people sooner has led to better results for patients in water therapy.

“So many times people come and say, ‘I didn’t know how well this was going to help me, but now this is what keeps me going,’” Shock said.

Although the two therapy styles may seem worlds apart, Shock said water therapy and land therapy are not vastly different. There are also many advantages to water therapy, which allow patients to accomplish things they were not able to on land.

One of the better advantages comes as a shock to most who participate. Shock said many are surprised at the relief of pain while in the pool because of the buoyancy from being in the water.

“It’s very neat to see people get in the pool and do things that they just can’t do on land,” Shock said. “For instance our stroke patients that we may put in that are not able to walk on land can get in the pool and take some steps. That’s huge for somebody’s mental state. There is so much depression that comes with loss of function and pain.”

While actually entering the water has been tough for some patients, especially those with a fear of water, Shock is quick to say that should not keep people from participating.

The entrance point at the fitness center pool is 3 feet, which allows patients to stand comfortably above water. There are also rails around close to three-quarters of the pool. A lift chair is present to help patients who are not able to walk down the stairs into the pool.

Shock also said that the patients are never alone while in the water. A therapist is always present.

Many patients have told Shock that water therapy has seemed less like work than land therapy, but still a good workout.

“Exercise on land seems like work,” Shock said. “You’re lifting weights and sweating. A lot of people say, ‘I can come out here and get a good workout and I don’t have to sweat.’”

Providing patients with a means of relief has provided Shock and the rest of the physical therapy staff with many gratifying moments. They have been able to see patients find a way to better their conditions through their effort in the water.

While water and land therapy will continue to be main styles of physical therapy, the push for a more balanced split between water and land therapy has been beneficial to the most important people – the patients.