Ras Al Khaimah: RAK Hospital has introduced an aquatic physiotherapy treatment as a major rehabilitation technique for people of all ages, it was announced.
The innovative treatment of hydrotherapy can help treat a variety of conditions and help for a faster healing, the hospital said.
People suffering with conditions such as osteoarthritis, muscular and joint injury or fracture, lower back and neck pain, cerebral palsy, as well as victims of strokes or accidents and pre- and post-surgery patients can be treated using this technique.
“Hydrotherapy can be a great way to have fun while recovering from an injury. Water has a well-deserved reputation for healing and aqua rehab allows patients to move more quickly through the system without compromising outcomes,” said Dr Jean Marc Gauer, CEO, RAK Hospital.
Because it is relatively pain-free, patients are more compliant,” he added.
“The natural properties of water help speed up recovery, minimise the loss of range of motion (especially important when the injury is located in a joint), increase blood circulation and decrease inflammation.”
Cornelia Gloor, head of Department, Physiotherapy and Rehabilitation at RAK Hospital, said the physical principles of water help to make hydrotherapy such a beneficial method of rehabilitation.
“Being in the water allows you to float, taking pressure off your joints. You can also use the water as a form of resistance while doing exercises. The temperature and pressure of the water can be comforting for an injured area to help control swelling and pain,” she said.
Hydrotherapy can help with many different types of rehabilitation through individualised rehab programmes such as cardiac rehab, respiratory rehab, musculoskeletal rehab, athletic rehab, arthritis and geriatrics. It can help relieve pain, promote relaxation, mobilise joints, strengthen muscles, develop balance and coordination, and improve general fitness.
