Are you experiencing back pain? You may have previously tried land-based exercises to treat the issue, but are you wondering if there is something more that can be done? Aquatic therapy may be your solution. Research supports that aquatic therapy is effective in the treatment of back pain. The warmth and buoyancy of the water combined with the elimination of gravity eases pressure on joints and muscles. A study at the University of Wisconsin found that aquatic therapy was a positive way to improve flexibility and sleep patterns and reduce muscle and joint pain in middle aged and older adults with a history of orthopedic limitations and discomfort.
Another study tested whether aquatic therapy was more effective in treating chronic low back pain compared to land-based exercises. Two groups of patients with chronic low back pain were compared. One group participated in pool-based exercises for a month, while the other group did exercises given by a Physical Therapist at home for a month.
While there was a “significant improvement after treatment in both groups (1),” the statistical analysis revealed that the improvement was significantly greater amongst the patients that participated in the aquatic exercise group. Continue reading “Aquatic Therapy Can Help Your Back Pain”