Aquatic Therapy for Patients with Neuromuscular Disorders

August 12th, 2008 Posted in News, Resources/Support

Seated in his power wheelchair, Phillip Wickman doesn’t look like a basketball player and he has great difficulty controlling his limbs. However, Phillip Wickman in the water can stand and shoot hoops –just like his idol Dwight Howard, the NBA superstar. Phillip spends a lot of time perfecting his moves in the heated therapy pool at Performance Rehabilitation in Apopka, FL.

Phillip, a 14-year-old with cerebral palsy, exclaims, “[y]es, I feel strong,” using an electronic synthesizer after his hour long workout of aquatic therapy. Phillip is one of a growing number of children with neuromuscular disorders who are now trying aquatic therapy. The principles of water provide a unique set of conditions for physical therapists to treat patients with neuromuscular diseases such as cerebral palsy and Parkinson’s disease.

The innovative therapy is also being used for pain management. In regular therapy, whether it was with a walker or holding onto something for support, Phillip was in agony every time he stood up. When he attempted to walk, his legs often crossed causing him to trip and become frustrated. But since starting aquatic therapy, Phillip has improved dramatically and is showing strength and mobility. When he and his father went to an Orlando Magic game recently, Phillip managed to stand for five minutes while holding onto a rail, which is a huge improvement and accomplishment for him.

According to researcher Dr. Deborah Thorpe, “children with cerebral palsy develop muscle and mobility at the same pace as those undergoing regular physical therapy. The difference is water doesn’t hurt.” The water takes the pressure off the spine and joints, while its temperature increases blood circulation throughout the patient. This therapy is proving to be very beneficial and has the opportunity to help so many people suffering from a neuromuscular disease.

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