Hydrotherapy in Northampton

What is hydrotherapy / Aquatic Physiotherapy

Aquatic physiotherapy, also known as hydrotherapy, is physiotherapy conducted in a warm-water pool under the guidance of a trained physiotherapist. It is equally beneficial for individuals with both neurological and musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, offering a low-impact environment to support movement, strength, and recovery.

How It Helps

Water provides a unique therapeutic setting due to its physical properties:

• Buoyancy supports the body, reducing joint stress and enabling easier movement.
• Hydrostatic pressure aids circulation, reduces swelling, and enhances body awareness.
• Viscosity and resistance allow for muscle strengthening and balance training without the risk of falling.
• Warmth (typically 33–36°C) relaxes muscles, reduces pain, and increases range of motion.

For Neurological Conditions

Aquatic physiotherapy can significantly improve function and quality of life for people with neurological conditions, including:

• Stroke
• Parkinson’s disease
• Multiple sclerosis
• Cerebral palsy
• Spinal cord injury

Benefits:

• Enhances motor control and coordination
• Improves balance and proprioception
• Supports gait re-education and walking practice
• Reduces spasticity and muscle tightness
• Builds confidence in movement without the fear of falling
• Provides sensory stimulation in a controlled setting

• Provides relief from pain

• Promotes strengthening of muscles

• Improves circulation

• Improve posture and balance

• Physiological effects include- improve cardiovascular fitness, improve respiratory function, reduce oedema, improve circulation, improve renal function.

There is a huge sense of achievement and independence gained from aquatic physiotherapy and water immersion. There are significant benefits reported from our clients, as often neurological clients are able to perform activities in the pool that they are unable to perform on dry land.

For Musculoskeletal (MSK) Conditions

Hydrotherapy is used to manage MSK conditions such as:

• Osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis
• Low back pain and disc problems
• Post-operative recovery (e.g., joint replacements, ligament repairs)
• Sports injuries (e.g., sprains, strains, tendinopathy)
• Fibromyalgia and chronic pain syndromes

Benefits:

• Reduces joint loading and pain during exercise
• Aids in regaining joint mobility and flexibility
• Accelerates post-surgical rehabilitation
• Promotes muscle strengthening and endurance
• Facilitates gentle stretching and functional movement
• Improves posture and body alignment

Assessment and Safety

Before starting aquatic physiotherapy, a thorough assessment is carried out to ensure suitability. You will also be asked to complete a screening form. This will also be the opportunity to address any specific precautions that need to be considered before commencing hydrotherapy, following your medical screening form.

Safety is a top priority, and hydrotherapy may not be appropriate for individuals with:

• Open wounds or skin infections
• Uncontrolled epilepsy
• Incontinence
• Certain heart or respiratory conditions
• Renal Failure
• Fear of water (unless therapy is adapted accordingly)

Continuing Treatment

After your initial assessment, all hydrotherapy appointments will last for 45 minutes. This will include getting in and out of the pool. The treatment will be done on a 1-2-1 basis with your therapist where your treatment can be monitored and progressed where necessary.

What will I need?

You will need to bring a swimming costume, a towel and shower gel. You may want to bring a dressing gown or additional towel, for warmth before and after you enter and exit the pool.

Location

Hydrotherapy (Aquatic Physiotherapy) with a Neurological Physiotherapist takes place at the Moulton Leisure Centre, Northampton, NN3 7QL

Aquatic physiotherapy offers a highly effective, low-impact treatment for both neurological and musculoskeletal conditions. By using water’s natural properties to support movement and reduce pain, it enables clients to perform exercises they may struggle with on land, enhancing mobility, strength, and independence in a safe and therapeutic environment.