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After undergoing spinal surgery, most patients feel significant relief in knowing that their largest obstacle is out of the way. However, the process of rehabilitation to regain an active lifestyle is just beginning. The months that follow your back surgery may require a comprehensive physical training regimen. One possible treatment method your doctor may prescribe as part of your physical therapy routine is hydrotherapy. But what is hydrotherapy and how helpful is it to patients recovering from back surgery? Here’s what you need to know.
What is Hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy involves the use of water to aid in recovery, stress reduction, and physical therapy. Also known as water therapy, hydrotherapy can include the use of water both internally and externally and at varying temperatures. Treatment options can include:
- Floatation tanks
- Steam baths
- Compresses
- Saunas
- Aquatic exercises
- Sitz baths
- Colonic cleansing
Therapeutic treatments with hydrotherapy can be performed at spas, health centers, physical therapy clinics, or even at home.
How Can Hydrotherapy Help You Recover from Back Surgery?
If you’ve just undergone back surgery, you may be wondering if hydrotherapy can help in speeding up your recovery or relieving any post-op pain. A few benefits of aqua therapy for back surgery patients can include:
- Decreased weight bearing on affected areas
- Reduced swelling
- Eased soreness
- Lower blood pressure
- Improved relaxation
- Stimulated immune system
- Better balance
- Strengthened muscles
These advantages are largely due to the fact that submerging yourself in water causes a natural reaction from your body that increases blood flow, which can help to promote the healing process.
Hydrotherapy also grants the body the ability to move weightlessly, allowing for a comfortable environment for post-op patients to complete exercises that wouldn’t be possible on land. The water supports the body and decreases load bearing on the spine and weakened muscles. This extra support provides the patient with the capacity to sustain their entire body weight with minimal effort and increase their range of motion.
How Can Aquatic Exercise Aid in Your Back Surgery Recovery?
After enduring spinal surgery, your body will need to build back its muscle strength and flexibility in order for you to resume your daily lifestyle. Hydrotherapy can allow this to be done in a safer environment by reducing the stress on the weakened muscles that surround and support your spine. Also, the stronger your body can become, the better your cardiovascular system will function and the more you’ll reduce your risk of a future spine or back injury.
Eliminate Back Pain with a Board-Certified Specialist at OLSS
At Orthopedic & Laser Spine Surgery, we pride ourselves in providing our clients with the highest quality care possible. Our experienced specialists know that each patient’s situation is unique, and our team will work diligently to create a one-of-a-kind treatment plan that fits your busy schedule.
If you’re interested in treating your back pain with a minimally invasive procedure and want to work with a medical team that puts your best interests first, call us today at (855) 853-6542 or complete our online contact form.