Suzanne Click, Author at West Texas Rehab

Author: Suzanne Click

Why You Shouldn’t Be Scared of the Word “Hospice”

Posted on by Suzanne Click

For many people, the word hospice sparks an immediate sense of fear. It’s whispered quietly in hospital rooms, often followed by tears, uncertainty, or silence. We associate hospice with endings — the end of treatment, the end of hope, the end of life.

But what if we looked at hospice differently?
 What if hospice wasn’t a word to fear, but one to embrace — a form of compassionate care focused on living fully, comfortably, and with dignity?

Hospice Isn’t About Giving Up — It’s About Focusing on What Matters

Hospice care isn’t about stopping care; it’s about changing the type of care you receive. Instead of focusing on curing an illness, hospice focuses on comfort, quality of life, and support — for both patients and families.

When medical treatments become more burdensome than beneficial, hospice offers a shift in priorities: from extending time at all costs to making the most of the time that remains.

It’s not giving up hope; it’s redefining it.
Hope can mean relief from pain, meaningful conversations, laughter with loved ones, or simply peace at home surrounded by those who matter most.

Hospice Helps Patients Live Better — Not Just Longer

Many people are surprised to learn that patients who enter hospice care sometimes live longer than those who don’t. That’s because hospice focuses on holistic wellbeing — managing pain, reducing anxiety, and creating an environment of emotional and spiritual support.

When someone is cared for by a team that understands their physical and emotional needs, they can often relax, find comfort, and reclaim moments of joy that illness had taken away.

Families Find Support, Too

Hospice isn’t just for the patient — it’s for the family. The journey through serious illness can be overwhelming. Hospice teams include nurses, aides, social workers, chaplains, and counselors, and volunteers who help families navigate every step. They provide guidance, respite, and grief support that continues long after a loved one has passed.

Families often say, “I wish we’d called hospice sooner.”
That’s because once they experience the warmth, compassion, and peace that hospice brings, they realize it’s not about dying — it’s about living well until the very end.

Hospice Is About Dignity and Choice

One of the greatest gifts hospice gives is control. It allows patients and families to make decisions that reflect their values and wishes. Whether that means spending time at home, listening to favorite music, or being surrounded by loved ones — hospice ensures that those final days are spent with dignity and intention.

Changing the Conversation

It’s time we change how we talk about hospice.
 It’s not a dark, final word. It’s a word that stands for comfort, compassion, and care.

When we remove the fear and stigma, we open the door to meaningful conversations — about life, love, and what truly matters most.

So if you ever hear the word “hospice,” take a deep breath.
 It doesn’t mean the end. It means help, peace, and support are available — for both you and your loved ones.

For more information about Hospice and Bereavement Services available through

West Texas Rehabilitation Center which covers Abilene, San Angelo and 27 surrounding counties contact us today: 

 

Hospice of San Angelo- 325-658-6524

Hospice of the Big Country- 325-793-5450

Four Benefits of Dry Needling

Posted on by Suzanne Click

Four Benefits of Dry Needling

Dry Needling is a therapeutic treatment in which a trained, certified therapist inserts a small, sterile, microfilament needle directly into a myofascial trigger point in the muscle.  This helps release muscle tension and pain, boosts blood flow, diminishes inflammation, and prompts a healing response.  Read on for the top four benefits of dry needling:

Get fast pain relief

Most people associate trigger points with knotted muscles in their shoulder, upper back, and neck.  But these “knots” can arise in any part of your body and be associated with many conditions, from low back and sciatica to headaches and overuse injuries.

Your pain improves as the knot relaxes and blood flow improves. Better circulation means that painful, acidic wastes get carried away while your muscles receive the oxygen and nutrients they need to heal.

Regain your range of motion

Few things stop you from moving like tight, painful muscles.  If you have multiple trigger points, you may experience severely limited mobility.  And when you’re not active, your muscles weaken and lose mass.

Our physical and occupational therapists include dry needling in your comprehensive therapy program to restore your range of motion and rebuild your strength.  Clinically, we see improved muscle length, flexibility, strength and a corresponding decrease in pain with our patients following dry needling treatments.  Therapy further helps retrain your muscles, and this helps to prevent future trigger points.

Accelerate your recovery

Whether you suffered an injury or had surgery, moving your body is the best way to promote healing and speed up your recovery. Physical or Occupational therapy will set you up with an individualized plan specific to your recovery and adding dry needling to this therapy plan can accelerate the healing process.

Improve chronic pain conditions

Dry needling is a non-medicated treatment that goes a long way toward easing chronic pain conditions such as myofascial pain syndrome, migraines and fibromyalgia. Dry needling improves nerve communication and activates the release of your body’s natural pain relievers. Used in conjunction with other therapies such as stretching, strengthening, and re-educating muscle movement patterns, many chronic pain conditions can be successfully treated.

Many patients experience an immediate reduction in local and widespread pain after one dry needling session.  Others may need several sessions to achieve optimum pain relief.  Your treatment plan depends on the severity and number of trigger points.

For more information about dry needling services offered at West Texas Rehabilitation Center please contact our Adult Therapy departments at San Angelo (325-223-6300) or Abilene (325-793-3400).

National Rehabilitation Awareness Week

Posted on by Suzanne Click

National Rehabilitation Awareness Week, celebrated annually during the third week of September, promotes the significant benefits of rehabilitation services—including physical, occupational, and speech therapy—for individuals recovering from illness, injury, or surgery. The week highlights the remarkable progress patients achieve, honors the dedicated professionals who guide their recovery, and educates the public on how these specialized services help people regain independence and improve their overall quality of life.

 What is National Rehabilitation Awareness Week?

  • A Time for Awareness:
    It’s an annual event that raises awareness about the crucial role rehabilitation plays in the health and well-being of communities. 
  • A Celebration of Progress:
    The week recognizes the incredible journey of patients, from severe injuries or chronic conditions to regaining their independence and achieving their personal goals. 
  • An Honor for Professionals:
    It provides an opportunity to celebrate and thank the physical therapists, occupational therapists, speech-language pathologists, and other dedicated professionals who provide essential care. 

Why is it Important?

  • Physical and Mental Benefits:
    Rehabilitation improves physical strength, mobility, and function, and also significantly contributes to mental health, self-confidence, and a greater sense of well-being. 
  • Restoring Independence:
    Services like occupational therapy help individuals relearn daily activities, while physical therapy focuses on regaining strength and mobility, both vital for returning to a full life. 
  • Broader Impact:
    Rehabilitation services are essential not just for major life changes but also for managing chronic conditions, preventing future injuries, and improving the overall quality of life for people of all ages. 

What Can You Do?

  • Learn More:
    Explore the diverse range of rehabilitation services available, which can include physical, occupational, and speech therapy, as well as animal-assisted therapy. 
  • Connect with Professionals:
    Reach out to a local rehabilitation provider to learn how they can support you or a loved one in recovery. 
  • Spread the Word:
    Share the benefits of rehabilitation and encourage others who could benefit from these services to seek help. 

Why Wait to Hear Your Best?

Posted on by Suzanne Click

It is human nature to put things off. We can say, “I’ll get to that later”. Oftentimes we do this about our self care. We tend to put ourselves last. Have you or someone you love been putting off doing something about your hearing?

Unfortunately I have heard patients say, “I’ll get hearing aids when my hearing gets real bad.” That is the worst lack of action that we can do. Have you ever experienced something becoming harder to do as you age? Wearing hearing aids for the first time in your 60’s is very different from wearing hearing aids for the first time in your 80s. I see patients struggle to even get the hearing aid in their ear correctly. We have something called muscle memory. Muscle memory is a neurological process that allows you to remember and perform certain movements with less conscious effort after repeated practice. The sooner we start wearing hearing aids when we need them, the better.

Presbycusis is the natural deterioration of our hearing system as we age. Hearing doesn’t get better with time, it gets worse. We hear and process sound with our brain. Hearing “lights up” certain areas of the brain. Hearing loss is depriving the brain of “lighting up”. We have heard the saying, “If you don’t use it, you lose it.” Hearing aids help with this. Hearing aids provide sound stimulation to the brain, so those areas are “lighting up” again. Also, our ability to recognize the clarity of speech can be preserved the sooner we start wearing hearing aids.

So, why wait to hear your best? Be proactive with your hearing healthcare and schedule an appointment with us today. Call us at 325-223-6360. We look forward to being a part of the journey to your BEST hearing!

 

Written by: 

Adrianne Miller, AuD

Doctor of Audiology, Director of WTRC Hearing Center

Summer Time Hearing Aid and Implant Care

Posted on by Suzanne Click

Summer Time Hearing Aid & Implant Care: How to Stay Cool and Connected

Summer brings sunshine, beach trips, and outdoor adventures, but it also brings heat, humidity, and sweat, which can pose unique challenges for hearing aid users. Whether you’re heading to the pool or hiking your favorite trail, it’s important to keep your hearing aids protected and performing their best. Here’s how to enjoy your summer without missing a beat, or a sound.

1. Moisture is the #1 Problem. Hearing aids are sensitive to moisture, and in summer, sweat and humidity can easily sneak into microphones and receivers. Water-resistant doesn’t mean waterproof. Pools, oceans, and sudden rain showers can all spell trouble.

  • Use a dehumidifier or hearing aid drying box overnight.
  • Wipe your hearing aids regularly with a dry, lint-free cloth.
  • Consider using hearing aid sweatbands or protective covers if you’re active outdoors.
  • Remove your hearing aids before swimming or showering.
  • Keep a waterproof storage case with you when at the beach or pool.
  • Be mindful of sunscreen and bug spray. Spray away from your ears and apply before putting in your devices.

2. Beat the Heat. Extreme heat can damage the internal components of your hearing aids. Avoid leaving them in hot places, especially cars or direct sunlight.

  • Store hearing aids in a cool, dry place.
  • Don’t leave them on a towel at the beach or a table in the sun.
  • Use a ventilated case when not wearing them.

4. Stay Active, Stay Secure. Summer often means increased activity such as hiking, biking, and playing sports. Make sure your hearing aids stay put.

  • Use retention cords or clips to secure your devices.
  • Take breaks in shaded areas to cool off and check your devices.

5. Plan Ahead When Traveling. Vacation season can disrupt routines, so pack smart.

  • Bring extra batteries or a charging cable.
  • Pack your hearing aid cleaning tools and storage case.
  • Look up hearing care providers near your destination just in case.

With a little planning and care, your hearing aids can handle everything summer throws your way. Following the above tips will allow you to focus on enjoying the sounds of laughter, waves, splashing, music, and more. If you’re ever unsure about maintenance or need a tune-up, call us today to schedule an appointment. Summer is here!

Unplugged and Outdoors: Screen-Free Summer Activities for Kids

Posted on by Suzanne Click

As the school year ends and long summer days stretch ahead, many parents are wondering how to keep their kids entertained without screens taking over. While a little screen time isn’t harmful, too much can lead to restlessness, disrupted sleep, and missed opportunities for real-world fun.  Fortunately, summer is the perfect time to encourage creativity, physical activity, and good old-fashioned play. Here are some of the best screen-free summer activities to keep kids happy, active, and engaged — no Wi-Fi required!

1. Backyard Adventures

You don’t need to leave home to spark imagination and exploration:

  • Backyard Camping: Set up a tent, make s’mores, and tell stories under the stars.
  • Scavenger Hunts: Create lists of nature items to find (a feather, a smooth rock, a red flower).
  • Obstacle Courses: Use cones, pool noodles, or whatever you have to build a fun, challenging course.

2. DIY Arts and Crafts

Let kids get messy, creative, and proud of what they make:

  • Nature Collages: Gather leaves, twigs, and flowers for a textured masterpiece.
  • Rock Painting: Turn found stones into ladybugs, monsters, or kindness rocks to hide around town.
  • Friendship Bracelets: An old favorite that builds fine motor skills and patience.

3. Water Fun Without the Screens

Beat the heat with some classic water play:

  • Sprinkler Games: Run, dance, or limbo through it!
  • DIY Splash Pad: Lay out a tarp, turn on the hose, and let the giggles begin.
  • Water Balloon Baseball: A splashy twist on a summer favorite.

4. Garden Growing and Bug Watching

Kids love seeing things grow — and tiny creatures up close:

  • Grow Your Own Snacks: Plant fast-growing seeds like radishes, lettuce, or cherry tomatoes.
  • Build a Bug Hotel: Use sticks, leaves, pinecones, and recycled containers to make a cozy spot for critters.
  • Butterfly Watching: Learn about local species and try to spot them on walks or in your yard.

5. Explore the Great Outdoors

Make the most of parks, trails, and nature preserves:

  • Hiking with a Twist: Let kids lead the way or create a trail map together.
  • Creek Wading and Stone Skipping: Simple joys that never get old.
  • Picnic Parties: Let them help pack a lunch, bring books, and make it a full afternoon adventure.

6. Cook Together

Get kids in the kitchen for fun, tasty learning:

  • No-Bake Recipes: Try homemade granola bars, frozen yogurt bites, or fruit kabobs.
  • DIY Pizza Night: Let each child build their own mini pizza with favorite toppings.
  • Lemonade Stand: Great for math skills, social interaction, and entrepreneurship!

7. Old-School Games and Challenges

Reintroduce the classics or invent your own:

  • Jump Rope or Hopscotch: Easy to set up and great exercise.
  • Board Game Tournaments: Invite neighbors or siblings for a game-day showdown.
  • Daily Challenges: Set a fun goal like “learn to hula hoop” or “write a poem about summer.”

Keep It Simple, Keep It Fun

Summer doesn’t have to be perfectly planned — kids thrive when they have freedom to explore and be bored. That boredom can be the beginning of something creative, spontaneous, and joyful. A screen-free summer might just become their favorite kind.

So put down the tablet, grab a bucket of sidewalk chalk, and dive into a season of real play, real connection, and real fun.

The Power of Early Intervention: Why Speech Therapy Can’t Wait

Posted on by Suzanne Click

The Power of Early Intervention: Why Speech Therapy Can’t Wait
 Celebrating Better Speech and Hearing Month – May

Every child deserves the chance to express themselves clearly, confidently, and fully. Yet, for many, speech and language challenges can create barriers in communication that affect learning, relationships, and emotional well-being. That’s where early speech therapy intervention becomes a powerful tool—and during May, Better Speech and Hearing Month, it’s the perfect time to raise awareness about its critical role.

Why Early Intervention Matters

Speech and language skills begin developing from the moment a child is born. By the time they reach preschool, these skills form the foundation for literacy, learning, and social interaction. Delays or difficulties in communication—whether with articulation, language comprehension, fluency, or voice—can have lasting impacts if not addressed early.

Here’s why early intervention is so essential:

1. The Brain Is More Adaptable at a Young Age

Neuroplasticity—the brain’s ability to change and adapt—is at its peak during early childhood. This means young children are better able to learn new speech and language patterns, making therapy more effective when started early.

2. Reduces the Risk of Academic Struggles

Children with untreated speech and language disorders often face challenges with reading, writing, and classroom participation. Early support can bridge those gaps and prepare them for school success.

3. Boosts Social and Emotional Development

Clear communication helps children build friendships and navigate their world with confidence. Without it, they may feel frustrated, isolated, or misunderstood. Early therapy empowers them to connect with others in meaningful ways.

4. Increases Long-Term Independence

The earlier a child begins therapy, the more likely they are to reach communication milestones that support greater independence in school, work, and daily life.

May Is Better Speech and Hearing Month

Every May, we celebrate Better Speech and Hearing Month, a national campaign led by the American Speech-Language-Hearing Association (ASHA) to promote understanding about communication disorders and the importance of early treatment. It’s a time to educate families, caregivers, educators, and healthcare professionals about how speech-language pathologists (SLPs) and audiologists can make a profound difference.

This year’s theme encourages us all to be proactive—whether that means getting a hearing screening, scheduling a developmental evaluation for your child, or simply starting a conversation about speech therapy with someone who may benefit from it.

What You Can Do

  • Watch for signs. Trust your instincts. If your child isn’t meeting speech milestones or struggles to be understood, talk to a pediatrician or SLP.
  • Act early. Don’t wait for your child to “grow out of it.” Early help leads to better outcomes.
  • Share awareness. Use this month to spread the word about the importance of speech and hearing health.

Speech therapy is more than correcting sounds—it’s about opening the doors to expression, confidence, and connection. By prioritizing early intervention and recognizing May as Better Speech and Hearing Month, we can give every child the voice they deserve.

If you have questions or concerns about  your child’s speech or language development, reach out to our Pediatric Therapy Departments in San Angelo (325-223-6300) or Abilene (325-793-3400).   

Understanding the Role of a Pediatric Occupational Therapist: Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month in April

Posted on by Suzanne Click

Understanding the Role of a Pediatric Occupational Therapist: Celebrating Occupational Therapy Month in April

April is a special time to celebrate the impact of Occupational Therapy (OT), and it’s the perfect moment to shine a light on one of its vital branches: pediatric occupational therapy. With April being Occupational Therapy Month, it’s important to recognize the invaluable work that pediatric occupational therapists (OTs) do to help children develop the skills they need to thrive in daily life.

What is Pediatric Occupational Therapy?

Pediatric occupational therapy focuses on helping children of all ages develop the fine motor, cognitive, social, and sensory skills necessary for everyday activities. While many people associate occupational therapy with adults recovering from injuries or surgeries, pediatric OTs specialize in supporting children who may be facing challenges in their development, whether due to medical conditions, disabilities, or developmental delays.

The goal of pediatric occupational therapy is to promote independence, safety, and confidence, both at home and in school. A pediatric OT works with children, families, and teachers to develop personalized treatment plans that help kids learn essential skills for self-care, play, schoolwork, and social interaction.

What Does a Pediatric Occupational Therapist Do?

A pediatric OT’s role can be quite diverse, depending on the needs of each child. Here are some key areas they focus on:

1. Fine Motor Skills Development

Pediatric OTs help children develop the small muscle movements necessary for tasks like writing, tying shoes, and using utensils. They work with kids on hand-eye coordination, hand strength, and finger dexterity to ensure they can complete these important tasks independently.

2. Sensory Integration

Many children experience sensory processing challenges, meaning they may have difficulty processing certain sensory stimuli like sounds, textures, or lights. Pediatric OTs use specific strategies and activities to help kids regulate their sensory responses, helping them feel more comfortable in their environments.

3. Self-Care and Daily Activities

Pediatric OTs teach children how to take care of themselves, including dressing, feeding, grooming, and toileting. The goal is to help children develop the independence to perform these tasks on their own and feel confident in doing so.

4. Cognitive and Social Skills

OTs work on cognitive skills like problem-solving, planning, and attention. They also focus on helping children with social skills, including taking turns, communicating effectively, and managing emotions. This area of therapy can be particularly important for children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) or attention-related challenges.

5. School Readiness

Many children benefit from occupational therapy to help with school-related tasks, including sitting still, maintaining focus, writing, and using tools like scissors. OTs work closely with teachers and parents to ensure that a child’s learning environment is supportive and that they can participate fully in school activities.

Pediatric occupational therapists play an essential role in helping children build the skills they need to live full, independent lives. From improving fine motor skills to helping children navigate sensory challenges, their work ensures that children can engage in the activities that are important for their growth and development. During Occupational Therapy Month, take a moment to appreciate the incredible work these professionals do and the positive impact they have on the lives of children and families. Whether it’s through therapy sessions, community outreach, or awareness campaigns, pediatric occupational therapists are dedicated to helping kids thrive—today and in the future.

The Importance of Balance After a Concussion: Awareness and Recovery During Brain Injury Awareness Month

Posted on by Suzanne Click

March marks Brain Injury Awareness Month, a time dedicated to raising awareness about brain injuries, their impacts, and the crucial role recovery plays in improving the lives of those affected. Concussions, one of the most common types of brain injury, often have long-lasting effects, especially when it comes to balance and coordination.

In this blog, we’ll discuss the common balance concerns after a concussion and why understanding and addressing them is so important. Whether you’re recovering from a concussion yourself or supporting someone through the process, knowing what to expect and how to manage balance issues can help make recovery more manageable.

What is a Concussion and How Does it Affect Balance?

A concussion is a type of mild traumatic brain injury (TBI) typically caused by a blow to the head or body that shakes the brain inside the skull. Though often considered a “mild” injury, concussions can lead to significant disruptions in brain function and have a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional effects.

One of the most challenging and common symptoms following a concussion is difficulty with balance. The brain’s ability to maintain physical stability involves a complex system that includes the inner ear (vestibular system), the visual system, and sensory inputs from muscles and joints. A concussion can disrupt this system, causing issues such as:

  • Dizziness and Vertigo: These feelings can occur when the brain struggles to process signals from the inner ear and other balance-related systems.
  • Impaired Coordination: Tasks requiring fine motor skills or maintaining physical equilibrium, such as walking or standing, may become more difficult.
  • Sensitivity to Movement: Even slight head movements or changes in position can cause symptoms to worsen, leaving individuals feeling off-balance or disoriented.

Why Balance Concerns Matter

Balance issues after a concussion are not just an inconvenience – they can significantly impact an individual’s quality of life. Simple activities like walking, driving, or exercising become more dangerous when balance is compromised. These difficulties can also contribute to anxiety or a sense of vulnerability, leading to a cycle where individuals avoid physical activity, which, in turn, can delay recovery.

Furthermore, improper or inadequate treatment of balance concerns can lead to persistent symptoms, a condition known as post-concussion syndrome. It’s essential to recognize these symptoms early and seek appropriate care to avoid long-term difficulties.

How to Manage Balance Issues After a Concussion

While the effects of a concussion can be challenging, there are several strategies for managing balance issues during recovery:

  1. Rest and Recovery: The brain needs time to heal, so it’s vital to avoid activities that strain the brain and exacerbate symptoms, such as sports or strenuous physical activity. Rest is key to allowing the brain to recover and regain its normal function.
  2. Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy (VRT): This specialized form of physical therapy helps individuals regain balance and coordination after a concussion. VRT includes exercises designed to retrain the brain and improve its ability to process signals from the balance systems. A trained therapist will tailor a program to meet individual needs, gradually increasing the intensity as symptoms improve.
  3. Gradual Return to Activity: Once balance issues begin to improve, a step-by-step approach to reintroducing physical activity is critical. Engaging in low-impact activities like walking or light stretching, and slowly progressing to more intense exercises, can help rebuild physical strength and confidence.
  4. Mindfulness and Relaxation Techniques: Balance disturbances can lead to feelings of anxiety, which may make symptoms worse. Practicing mindfulness, meditation, and relaxation exercises can help manage stress and reduce the emotional impact of recovery.
  5. Seek Support from Healthcare Professionals: If balance problems persist or worsen, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare provider. A concussion specialist, neurologist, or physical therapist can offer more personalized treatment options to address ongoing balance concerns.

Brain Injury Awareness Month: A Time for Advocacy

As we observe Brain Injury Awareness Month this March, it’s a perfect time to educate ourselves and others about the impact of concussions and other brain injuries on balance and overall health. Raising awareness about the importance of proper care and rehabilitation helps reduce stigma, encourages individuals to seek help when necessary, and ensures that recovery efforts are taken seriously.

For anyone recovering from a concussion, remember that balance issues are common and treatable. With the right guidance and support, it’s possible to regain balance, confidence, and a return to daily life.

Conclusion

Balance issues after a concussion are often one of the most challenging and misunderstood aspects of recovery. Whether you or someone you know is struggling with post-concussion balance problems, it’s important to recognize these symptoms and seek the necessary treatment and support. Brain Injury Awareness Month serves as a reminder that concussion recovery requires patience, care, and proper guidance from healthcare professionals. Through education and awareness, we can ensure that individuals living with brain injuries get the care they need to live fulfilling lives.

Remember, balance is key—both physically and mentally—in the recovery journey.

FMI about Vestibular Rehabilitation Therapy contact our Adult Therapy Department at 325-223-6304 in San Angelo or 325-793-3400 in Abilene. 

Key Benefits of Aquatic Therapy

Posted on by Suzanne Click

Aquatic therapy is a form of physical therapy that takes place in a pool or other water environment. It is often used in conjunction with land-based therapies for the treatment, management, and recovery of various conditions. Water’s buoyant, soothing properties offer less resistance, making it ideal for patients with pain and difficulty performing certain exercises.

What Is Aquatic Therapy?

Aquatic therapy is more than swimming laps in the pool. It is a safe and effective form of physical therapy utilizing evidence-based techniques to help patients move and feel better.

As with any physical therapy plan, aquatic therapy takes place under the supervision of a licensed physical therapist and follows a custom treatment plan based on the patient’s physical abilities and goals.

Aquatic physical therapy is recommended instead of or in conjunction with traditional physical therapy for patients whose symptoms and abilities necessitate a gentle, supportive exercise environment.

Aquatic therapy:

Lowers Fall Risk
Some patients who have issues with balance and stability may not be good candidates for land-based physical therapy.

Helps With Balance and Coordination
Aquatic therapy helps patients improve coordination and balance to reduce their risk of falls outside of the pool. Water slows down movement and stops falls, giving patients time to regain their posture if they get off balance.

Reduces Stress on Joints and Bones
Water reduces nearly 90% of body weight, when the patient is immersed to the neck. That buoyancy reduces the load on weight-bearing muscles, bones, and joints. This is ideal for anyone with a musculoskeletal condition or injury that would make landing on a hard surface unsafe or painful.

Builds Muscle Strength and Endurance
Because water is denser than air, it takes more effort to perform the same exercise in water than on land. This allows patients to increase muscle strength as they push against the water in a low-impact environment that will not stress vulnerable bones and tissues.

Increases Aerobic Capacity
Exercise increases aerobic capacity and breathing which is good for overall health. Aerobic exercise can reduce the risk of coronary artery disease and help to maintain a healthy blood pressure. This is good for patients who need aerobic activity but have pain and mobility issues that make land-based exercise challenging.

Improves Joint Flexibility
Water is conducive for greater range of motion in otherwise stiff joints. Warm water relaxes muscles which offloads tension from joints, allowing them to move more comfortably. Movement is medicine for individuals with arthritis and other joint conditions, making aquatic therapy a viable option for safe and gentle exercise.

Reduces Swelling
Hydrostatic pressure is pressure exerted by any type of fluid in a confined space. During aquatic physical therapy, water exerts hydrostatic pressure on the body. That pressure increases circulation and reduces swelling which in turn reduces joint stiffness and increases mobility.