Hydrotherapy is exercise in warm water for the treatment of a range of conditions

The unique properties of the warm water increase circulation, reduce muscle spasm and relieve pain.

The water can be particularly beneficial for those with neurological conditions.  The ability to swim is not necessary for Hydrotherapy. Being immersed, buoyant or massaged in water can relieve the  body of a variety of ways. In particular, Hydrotherapy can help with:

Muscular/ligament and tendon injury

Joint and Arthritic pain

Neurological conditions

Post-operative rehabilitation

What is Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is an ancient form of treatment, which involves carrying out exercise and specific physiotherapy techniques in warm water to help relieve pain, relax and strengthen muscles, increase circulation and subsequently improve function. Hydrotherapy treatment uses the properties of water to help patients with limited mobility maximise their mobility within the water.

Hydrotherapy pools are kept at an average temperature of 34c, much warmer than a public swimming pool. This allows patients to exercise more freely in a controlled relaxed environment.

Our facility is designed to help adults 18+ who are able to walk unaided.

“Thanks to yourself and Louise, my rehabilitation is well underway. That I can start managing. You have a waiting list with people who are in far greater need, so I will continue with Pilates and find a pool to exercise and swim in. I cannot thank you all for all your continued help and support. My back would not be more manageable without your help. With truly sincere thanks. ”

Marianne – patient since June 2021

The Benefits of Hydrotherapy

The benefits of hydrotherapy have been supported by the National Axial Spondyloarthritis Society, the Royal Osteoporosis Society and the Chartered Society of Physiotherapists for over 30 years.

Immersing yourself in warm water has many different beneficial effects on the body. Patients who are unable to move freely on land will discover a greater range of movement in the water, due to the effects of buoyancy on their joints and muscles. This buoyancy in water supports the body weight normally held through your joints, reducing pressure and alleviating pain. Depending on the depth of the water, varying pressures on the joints can be achieved and controlled.

The heat of the water helps the body to relax during exercise. The more relaxed the body is, the less pain it experiences, and the further the muscle tissues can stretch. In turn, this reduces the pressure on the joints and allows a greater freedom of movement within the water.

Immersion also increases hydrostatic pressure (the pressure created at different points when water responds to gravity) which assists in reducing swelling. When immersed neck-deep in water, hydrostatic pressure pushes blood inwards (from the extremities) and upwards. This increases cardiac output, i.e. the amount of blood the heart pumps through the circulatory system in one minute.

The properties of water can also be used to help strengthen your muscles. By pushing your arms and legs against the resistance of the water and using different floats, you can improve your muscle strength.

Hydrotherapy at The Paddock Pool

The hydrotherapy pool has been designed to include a number of underwater jets which facilitates resistance training and allows for different levels of rehabilitation. Different levels of depths are also included. It is ideal for patients who require treatment for long term joint conditions, post-operative rehabilitation or high-level sports conditioning.

Hydrotherapy treatment at The Paddock Pool is unique, combining professional excellence with patient care. Towels, robes, refreshments are all provided and one to one treatment packages are created, ensuring individuals get a bespoke rehabilitation plan. The atmosphere is both relaxing and safe.