Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy /aquatic therapy refers to treatment and exercise performed in water for therapeutic benefit. Pediatric aquatic physiotherapy is the use of water and water induced properties to improve physical and mental functioning of children with special needs.
At Child Development Center, we offer hydrotherapy in Dubai helping children to experience better physical function and overall well-being.
What is Hydrotherapy? And why to choose hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is a physiotherapy programme utilising the properties of water, designed by a qualified physiotherapist. The programme is specific to a child’s condition and maximises the child’s overall function, which can be physical, physiological or psychosocial. Water’s natural buoyancy, warmth, and resistance work together to relieve pain, relax muscles, and enhance joint flexibility.
Unlike land-based workouts, hydrotherapy offers a low-impact alternative for individuals with mobility limitations or physical discomfort.
For children with special needs water can be very beneficial. All activities the child engages in takes place in a pool (heated or non-heated). Activities which are challenging for a child on land can be much easier in the water because Water reduces a human’s body weight by 90 percent, allowing children to ambulate freely in a way that doesn’t place undue stress on the musculoskeletal system from forces such as gravity and body weight. Also walking in water provides more than 10 times more resistance than walking on land, which means an aquatic therapy patient receives the benefit of deep, intense exercises while in a soothing and comforting environment.
When is aquatic therapy advised?
There is no specific age, or point in a child’s therapy, that dictates when or if a child would benefit from aquatic therapy.
A child does not have to know how to swim to take part in an aquatic therapy program, although some familiarity with the water can be helpful in terms of easing the anxiety a child may experience if he or she has never been in a pool. Specific exercises and provisions will be made for children based on their age, physical condition and cognitive abilities in an effort to ensure the environment is safe, and the therapy is effective.
Benefits of Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy in Dubai is widely known for improving motor skills, mobility, and general well-being. Some of the important benefits are described below:
1. Reduced Joint Strain and Pain Relief
Water buoyancy reduces the tension on the joints and muscles, thus facilitating smooth movement with little pressure exerted. This is especially helpful for those with conditions such as cerebral palsy, muscular dystrophy, arthritis, and post-surgical rehabilitation.
2. Improved Muscle Strength and Coordination
Water resistance supplies a gentle but strong mode of strength training in which people would have better muscle control and coordination. Hydrotherapy exercises can also be modified to improve stability and motor function.
3. Enhanced Mobility and Flexibility
Hydrotherapy allows for a more excellent range of motion due to the supportive nature of water. Individuals with limited mobility often find it easier to perform movements in water that would be challenging on land.
4. Relaxation and Stress Reduction
Water warmth can soothe muscle tensions and increase relaxation, with less tension and stress. This is beneficial for individuals with neurological conditions and those experiencing anxiety related to movement or physical activity.
5. Encouragement of Independent Movement
Hydrotherapy offers children with developmental conditions a safe space to explore movement independently. The water’s support fosters confidence and encourages greater participation in physical activities.
Psychologically, aquatic therapy can:
- Improve self-esteem
- Empower
- Increase confidence
- Enhance quality of life
- Encourage relaxation
- Provide comfort
- Increase socialization
- Improve sleep pattern
Who can benefit from Hydrotherapy?
Adaptive Aquatic Therapy is for children with any special need. Conditions that may benefit include:
- Autism
- Cerebral palsy
- Down syndrome
- Orthopaedic disorders
- Spina bifida
- Pain
- Muscular dystrophy
- Developmental delay
- GBS
- Speech delay
What to expect during a Hydrotherapy Session?
A hydrotherapy session at CDC is personalized based on individual needs. Our trained therapists assess mobility levels and develop a structured plan to maximize the benefits of water-based exercises. Sessions typically include:
- Gentle warm-up exercises to help muscles relax.
- Targeted movements focusing on strength, flexibility, and coordination.
- Progressive exercises are designed to enhance mobility and motor control over time.
- Cool-down techniques to promote relaxation and muscle recovery.
Choose Child Development Center for Hydrotherapy in Dubai
At Child Development Center, we offer professional hydrotherapy in Dubai, offering a safe, engaging, and supportive environment. Our skilled physiotherapists specialize in creating personalized movement programs to enhance physical function.
Our facilities include temperature-controlled pools designed for maximum comfort and therapeutic effectiveness. If you or your child could benefit from hydrotherapy, contact CDC today to learn more about how our programs can support better movement, comfort, and confidence in daily activities.
Experience the benefits of hydrotherapy in Dubai with CDC’s specialized programs. Get in touch with us to book an assessment and start your journey to better mobility and overall well-being.
