Underwater Treadmill Center
Physical Therapy Today also offers a one-of-a kind fitness option to the public with The Underwater Treadmill Exercise Center located in Southwest Lubbock at 6202-82nd Street. A total of 16 underwater treadmills are housed in heated pools with a 4-½ foot water depth. The treadmills have the capacity to range in speed from .1 mph to 7.5 mph, thus, allowing for a variety clients’ walking or running abilities. Each underwater treadmill is powered by a hydraulic pump that circulates hydraulic fluid to and from the treadmill. The large digital display panel allows clients to view their speed, time, and distance while exercising on the treadmills. The buoyancy of the water allows clients to exercise freely without the impact on the lower extremity joints and lower back, but provides the intensity of an effective exercise program. A client in chest-deep water is approximately 25% weight bearing but has the resistance of the water to increase the heart rate, to burn calories, and to improve his/her physical well-being.
Benefits of Aquatic Therapy
Aquatic therapy takes advantage of:
- Buoyancy - it eases the stress on your muscles and joints.
- Temperature - the warm water soothes and relaxes the body.
- Viscosity - the "thickness" of the water provides gentle resistance.
- Turbulence - moving water gently challenges the body to maintain balance and control.
- Hydrostatic Pressure - this pressure provides natural relief of joint swelling.
A Comfortable Rehabilitation Option
For those who struggle with traditional land-based therapy, aquatic therapy a great treatment opportunity. Patients need not possess swimming skills to benefit from aquatic therapy. Treatment can be performed in sitting and/or standing positions.
If you suffer from one of the following, chances are, you can benefit from aquatic rehab:
- Arthritis Pain
- Low Back Pain
- Obesity
- Fibromyalgia
- Stroke, MS, Cerebral Palsy
- Joint Replacement
- Sports Injuries
- Difficult with Walking/Balance
The Benefits of Aquatic Therapy
Aquatic therapy is one of the safest, most comfortable treatment options a physical therapy patient will ever experience. Common benefits of aquatic therapy are:
- Decreased Pain
- Improved Range of Motion and Flexibility
- Improved Strength and Aerobic Endurance
- Improved Walking Skills
- Improved Confidence and Mental Status
Aquatic therapy takes advantage of:
- Buoyancy - it eases the stress on your muscles and joints.
- Temperature - the warm water soothes and relaxes the body.
- Viscosity - the "thickness" of the water provides gentle resistance.
- Turbulence - moving water gently challenges the body to maintain balance and control.
- Hydrostatic Pressure - this pressure provides natural relief of joint swelling.
What the Patient will Need:
- Swimsuit
- Aqua Shoes
- Towel
- A robe to wear from the locker room (optional)
- Cap (optional)
Our staff are specially trained to provide you with an individualized aquatic therapy treatment program. Aquatic therapy is covered by many insurance plans. Give us a call today to learn more!
