Case Study
Aquatic Therapy: A New Path for Stroke Recovery
The Challenge:
Complex Recovery Needs
At six weeks post-stroke, 68-year-old Margaret faced multiple challenges. Her left-sided weakness, combined with high blood pressure and type 2 diabetes, made traditional rehabilitation risky. Land-based therapy wasn’t providing the progress her medical team hoped for, and Margaret’s fear of falling limited her confidence.
The Solution:
Aquatic Therapy Provides Support
The turning point came when Margaret’s rehabilitation team explored aquatic therapy options. Research showed that the properties of water could create an ideal environment for her complex needs. The hydrostatic pressure of water helps stabilize blood pressure, while its buoyancy provides natural support for safer movement.
Margaret’s physical therapist carefully monitored her vital signs, including blood pressure and blood sugar levels, throughout each session. The buoyancy of water at chest depth provided approximately 65% weight relief, making movement easier while still maintaining enough resistance for strengthening.
The Result:
Water Enables Progress
Within six weeks, Margaret showed remarkable progress. Her blood pressure remained stable during position changes, and she developed confidence in movement patterns that had seemed impossible on land. Most importantly, she could exercise safely despite her multiple health conditions.
Key Benefits of Aquatic Therapy:
- Safe environment for movement exploration
- Natural support from water’s buoyancy
- Cardiovascular benefits without excess strain
- Improved confidence through supported activity
Consider Hudson Aquatic Systems
For facilities looking to provide this type of rehabilitation, Hudson Aquatic Systems offers several solutions:
The AquaFit Pro and AquaFit Plus systems provide expansive exercise chambers suitable for diverse therapy needs. These premiere hydrotherapy solutions can accommodate patients of all ages and conditions. For facilities with existing pools, the AquaGaiter series offers integration options to transform standard pools into advanced therapy centers.
Contact Hudson Aquatic Systems to learn which solution best fits your facility’s rehabilitation needs.
Case Study PDF