Aqua Therapy for Back Pain

Aquatic therapy is a type of physical therapy in which patients receive muscular and skeletal rehabilitation in the water. This provides a low-impact means for individuals suffering from severe issues to get help without the discomfort usually associated with rehabilitation on land. Lower back pain is a common issue that can be treated with aqua therapy, providing both immediate pain relief and long-term health benefits.

Aqua Therapy Basics

• Aqua therapy provides a zero-impact environment with which to undergo physical rehabilitation for muscular and skeletal health issues. The buoyancy of the water allows for spinal decompression, encouraging smooth movement of the joints in the back. In addition to the spinal discs, aquatic therapy helps all joints move more fluidly without having to support body weight, reducing friction and lessening pain in these areas (see Resource 2).

  An added benefit of aquatic therapy is that resistance from water strengthens muscles without putting any additional pressure on joints. Performing exercises underwater gives your lower back the opportunity to build strength without compromising joint stability. Aquatic therapy will also improve circulation in your lower extremities, which can reverse inflammation in legs, giving the muscles in your lower back a break from carrying tension (see Resource 1).

Back Pain and Hydrotherapy

• Determine what your specific issues are and exactly where your back pain is stemming from. Getting a professional diagnosis for your issue will make it much easier for a physical therapist to handle your specific problems. Consult a health care professional who is familiar with your health problems to see if aqua therapy can help the source of your back pain (see Reference 2).

  Prepare for your first therapy session by stretching the injured area, being careful not to overextend muscles that may worsen the issue. Spend time with your therapist to relay any concerns or specific problem areas you would like to work on. Only go as fast as is comfortable for you; some discomfort may be associated with the initial exercises, but there should not be any pain. Immediately tell your therapist if your condition worsens during or after the session.

  Have your trainer teach you exercises you can do on your own. Oftentimes continuing rehabilitation outside of a medical setting can help you feel more comfortable with the exercises and motions. Make sure, however, that you are following directions exactly to avoid accidentally aggravating your injury. Stay with the course of treatment even if you feel immediate relief. Oftentimes patients will feel superficial relief after only a few sessions but still need to address the underlying problems causing the back pain (see Reference 3).