Has aquatherapy helped you with chronic pain?

@ellymayhem Did the doctor explain what he meant by "aquatherapy"? That's a very broad term. It can describe anything from a custom designed water stretching and exercise program to taking an "aquarobics" class to walking in water.

Here was my experience when rehabbing from repeated hip surgeries, have a lot of pain in back and legs as well as arthritis and fibromyalgia. Aqua therapy was prescribed to supplement land therapy and improve my strength, gait and balance. A Physical Therapist with training in water rehab designed a program for me in a therapy pool and supervised each exercise until she felt I mastered it. This was once a week. Then once or twice a week I would go to the pool and do my exercises. The next week she would check my form and progress, add more or increase difficulty, etc. This went on for just over a month, and exercises that hurt were removed or adjusted, then I was released to do the exercises on my own. I was then instructed to continue the exercises at my winter home in south Texas. In the Spring we did a followup visit and I was much better. I still do these exercises in the lake or pool whenever I am able as part of my total stretch and exercise routine.

So, you need to clarify, then go to a rehab facility that can help you get the exercises you need.
Sue

I met with therapist a couple days ago. She said she wants to take it slow... starting with 15 minutes the 1st time. She did not say exactly what I would be doing. I'm praying this will help . Thank you for your response, I appreciate it.

I can tell you also that my Mom, who had severe RA among other problems, had extensive aquatherapy after a stroke and got back most of the use of her left side. She said she felt "free" in the pool. I'm pretty sure giddy was a good description - she could move easily - the water supported her weight. At first we had to wheel her into the pool with a special chair - by 3 months she was getting in and holding the handrail and my hand. We continued our outings twice a week until winter made it unpleasant to go out. I have always wondered how much more she might have progressed if the place she lived had a therapy pool.
Sue

Rlly mayhem, I have severe neuropathy form what is presumed to be an autoimmune reaction. It originally came with shooting pain in my legs and feet. Aquatherapy with a physical therapist in the warm water pool at the local university where she teaches has been a godsend for my pain, mobility, balance, and a sense of freedom in that space. I can also swim unaided. The progress has been monitored over a year, by my PT.
I still need the lift to get into the pool most easily, but when it was broken for a time, I kept coming, and got into the pool by going down the steps on my bum! I recommend it with a physical therapist who works frequently with patient in a pool.

I have neuropathy in my legs and feet also... my balance is off especially when I go into large stores, parking lots, etc. I'm glad you've found relief. My 1st aquatherapy appointment is Tuesday. I hope, like you, I find some relief from all this pain. I appreciate your response.

Good luck on Tuesday. Give yourself a few sessions with the physical therapist to get used to the pool, and have the PT get a feel for how you will be helped most. I hope after some time there, you begin to feel the pool’s benefits.
Let us know how it goes for you!

I will... thanks!

I do aqua therapy for chronic knee pain it truly helps a lot just be careful not to overdo I feel so great in the pool

My PT started aqua therapy after my hip replacement. When those sessions ended I started attending a water exercise class for people with arthritis. I have RA, fibromyalgia and some nerve issues. The class has saved me. I’m not pain free but do feel and move better. And I’ve made a group of new friends. Even though most of them can exercise circles around me—most are in their 80’s and I’m 62. 😊

I’ve had water therapy with my first back surgery and I loved it , it helps a lot with pain ,balance ,healing and strength