The benefits of hydrotherapy to patients with spinal cord injuries

Many patients with spinal cord injury tend to lead inactive lifestyles, which results in a diminished quality of life and various medical issues. According to a study published in the Journal of Disability, spinal cord injury patients often avoid land-based exercises due to the monotony of repetitive routines, leading to reduced adherence to rehabilitation and adversely affecting their health. The scientists wanted to introduce different exercise settings and activities because they believed this could reduce boredom and improve compliance with patients.

After years of studying patients with spinal cord injuries and their response to hydrotherapy interventions, the effects of hydrotherapy on gait-kinematics, thermoregulation during water immersion, and the cardiorespiratory function, the scientists concluded that hydrotherapy improves underwater walking movements, cardiorespiratory and thermoregulatory responses, and reduces spasticity in individuals with spinal cord injuries.

You can view all published results in the Journal of Disability here.