Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is a form of treatment directed by a physiotherapist that utilises water for therapeutic effect.
Hydrotherapy can be selected as a treatment either to complement conventional, land-based, treatment, or used as an alternative if the benefit will be greater.
At the MS Therapy Centre in Bedford we are extremely lucky to have a beautiful hydrotherapy pool.
Sessions available at the centre::
Monday 9:45am - 2pm
Tuesday 9:45am - 2pm
Wednesday 9.45am - 2pm
Thursday 9:45am - 4pm
Please book a slot with reception
The freedom of movement enabled through the use of the medium of water often allows individuals to stand or walk when otherwise unable to do so, and the potential to exercise actively and independently, promotes a sense of wellbeing and enjoyment.
Hydrotherapy can be a beneficial form of exercise for most people with Multiple Sclerosis unless they suffer a significant level of fatigue, which can be exacerbated by the warm humid atmosphere and the effort required for dressing after the session.
Hydrotherapy offers physical, psychological and social benefits. It promotes increased freedom of movement, development of motor skills, sensory awareness and increased confidence, using the properties of water such as buoyancy and hydrostatic pressure.
The flow of water can be used to assist or resist exercise, thus offering great versatility
The temperature of the pool is held at 34o C , which is thermoneutral – pleasantly warm on entering the pool, and effective in achieving optimal therapeutic benefit
The aims of an exercise programme will always be to increase functional ability where possible, and to achieve relaxation and a sense of freedom and independence for all
Each session lasts approximately 30 minutes and an individual assessment can be carried out by a physiotherapist to ascertain suitability for exercise in water. It may be that underlying medical history will mean that hydrotherapy would be unsafe, but limited mobility is not a concern as we have various methods of hoist access, to suit all levels of confidence and ability.
The main benefits of Hydrotherapy for Multiple Sclerosis
The main benefits of exercise in water for people with Multiple Sclerosis are:
Improved blood supply to muscles – beneficial for strengthening exercises
Mobilisation of fluid within the tissues of the body – helping to reduce oedema
Relaxation of muscle tissue- enabling stretching of muscles to increase their range
Reduced pain and reduced hypersensitivity – due to the all-encompassing property of water
Reduced pressure on submerged joints – enabling greater and pain-free freedom of movement
Balance training – water providing either safe or challenging environment depending on individual need
Improved standing or walking due to the supportive nature of water
Relaxation provided by the warmth and support of the water
