Arthritis can be uncomfortable and difficult to deal with, but your aging loved one does not have to suffer needlessly.
There are many forms of therapy available through assisted living communities for senior citizens near the St. Paul area. If you have a loved one suffering from arthritis, aquatic therapy for seniors can help.
Check out some of the benefits of aquatic therapy.
What is Aquatic Therapy?
Aquatic therapy is a variety of exercises that are performed in water. The water must be warm for patient comfort, and it should be waist to shoulder deep.
A trainer or instructor leads the class or session. This is a great way for senior citizens living in retirement communities to increase their physical activity.
Aquatic therapy has many uses and its particularly beneficial for:
- Improvement in circulation
- Neck and back pain
- Increase in relaxation
- Promoting relief of anxiety
- Chronic pain
These are just some of the benefits of aquatic therapy for elderly patients. It is also used to help with symptoms of arthritis.
Aquatic Therapy for Arthritis
Arthritis is characterized by inflammation and tenderness of the joints. Pain, stiffness, and swelling are common symptoms of arthritis. These often get worse with age.
Aquatic therapy helps to slow the damage caused by the two most common types of arthritis – osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
These are some of the ways in while aquatic therapy helps relieve symptoms of arthritis:
- Reducing tenderness and swelling
- Increase in comfort during physical activity
- Soothing pain while immersed in warm water
- Building strength through water resistance
- Improvement in heart health
By reducing pressure in the joints, the pain and discomfort of arthritis can be alleviated. For those suffering from arthritis, these symptoms can be significantly reduced with regular aquatic therapy.
Types of Aquatic Therapy
Many forms of aquatic therapy can be fun and therapeutic. From exercises to massages, there is a form of aqua therapy to suit your aging loved one near St. Paul.
1. Aqua Exercise
Aquatic exercise takes place in warm water. It is great for low-impact physical activity.
This is particularly therapeutic for those suffering from arthritis, as well as injuries. This exercise can range from instructor-led classes in a group environment, or an individual session with a specialist.
This is also a great way to socialize and connect with others in a senior living environment. Community-based senior care centers offer engaging and therapeutic aquatic exercises.
2. Aqua Massage
This is simply a massage that takes place in the water. This promotes relaxation and can help soothe several ailments.
Aquatic massage is gentle and comforting, especially for those suffering from chronic pain. With more severe injuries, however, it is best to consult with a physical therapist.
3. Aqua Running
Aqua running consists of jogging underwater.
This is great for the cardiovascular system. It not only alleviates the high impact of traditional cardio exercises, but it is ideal for those suffering from injuries.
With aqua running, a floatation device is placed around the head of the patient to ensure that their head stays above water.
Aquatic Therapy Near St. Paul
We all want our elderly family members to live as comfortably as possible. Whether they are enjoying independent living, or they are part of an assisted living community in the St. Paul area, aquatic therapy is a great way to relieve pain including arthritis.
It is also a wonderful way to connect to the local senior community and have some fun.
If you want to know about available aquatic therapies, contact us for all of your senior care needs.
