Aquatic Therapy
What is Aquatic Therapy?
Aquatic physical therapy, also known as water therapy, is a gentle and effective treatment used to help patients heal, regain strength, and improve movement after injury, surgery, or with chronic conditions.
This technique uses the natural properties of water—buoyancy, resistance, and warmth—to create a safe and supportive environment for exercise. Buoyancy reduces pressure on the joints and spine, making movement easier and less painful compared to land-based therapy. This allows patients with arthritis, weight management concerns, back pain, or joint recovery to participate in exercise more comfortably.
Water resistance helps build strength without heavy weights, while the warmth helps relax muscles, improve circulation, and reduce stiffness. These elements work together to support progress with less discomfort.
Aquatic therapy is also used for neurological conditions, including stroke, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease. The supportive environment allows patients to safely practice balance, walking, and coordination while reducing the risk of falling.
As part of your overall physical therapy plan, aquatic therapy can help improve mobility, reduce pain, build strength, and support a more confident return to daily activities.
Benefits of Aquatic Therapy
Faster Recovery
Supports healing and may shorten recovery after injury or surgery.
Muscle Relaxation
Warm water reduces tension in tight or sore muscles.
Stress Relief
Creates a calming environment that supports emotional well-being.
Pain Reduction
Decreases discomfort, making movement more comfortable and enjoyable.
Better Balance
Improves stability, coordination, and overall body control.
Increased Safety
Water supports the body and reduces the risk of falling.
Strength Building
Water resistance improves strength without stressing the body.
Improved Mobility
Enhances joint movement and overall flexibility.
What to Expect
- You will be welcomed by your therapist and guided through your session
- Treatment is tailored to your goals, including flexibility, strength, pain, or balance
- Therapy takes place in a 4’3” deep pool with: easy seated entry (18" height), two underwater treadmills, and two endless swim currents
- Exercises may include: walking, stretching, strengthening movements, and water treadmill training
- You will move at your own pace with support and guidance
- Education is provided on what to expect and how therapy supports recovery
- Patients should bring a swimsuit or comfortable water-friendly clothing
- A private bathroom and changing room with shower is available
- After your session, you can shower and change before leaving
Aquatic therapy is designed to be both effective and enjoyable—helping you move with less pain, greater confidence, and improved independence.
Featured Blog Posts
The Key to Better PT Results: Sticking to Your Home Exercise Plan
If you’ve been to physical therapy, you were likely given a home exercise program (HEP). While these exercises may seem simple, they are one of the most important parts of your recovery.
Request an Appointment
Aquatic therapy at Optimal Physical Therapy is available in Lake Mills, WI. We proudly serve Lake Mills and surrounding communities including Cambridge, Fort Atkinson, Jefferson, Watertown, Marshall, Waterloo, Deerfield, and Johnson Creek.