Aquatic therapy allows early joint movement, even if a patient is experiencing pain.  Water supports the body and significantly reduces stress to joints so patients can strengthen and tone muscles.  Aquatic therapy is appropriate for patients of all ages.

Our pool
Our therapeutic pool is maintained at 89 to 93 degrees and has depths ranging from three to seven feet.  The room is also humidity controlled to prevent chilling after leaving the water.  The pool is equipped with side rails and a bench for seated exercises or resting, and a "non-slip" pool deck to increase safety.  Options for entering/exiting the pool include a hydraulic lift chair, steps and a ladder.  A large variety of exercise equipment is available to enhance the patient's rehab program.  Showers, towels and lockers are supplied, and a Rehab Technician assists patients with dressing or any other needs the patient may have.  We recommend the use of non-skid footwear in the locker/shower area.  Patients have the option of wearing comfortable, loose-fitting street clothes or a swimsuit during sessions.  Participants do not need to know how to swim and are not required to go under water.

Benefits Include:

	Increased circulation
	Increased strength
	Increased ROM and flexibility
	Increased balance and coordination
	Increased muscle tone
	Increased joint lubrication
	Decreased joint stress because of buoyancy
	Decreased swelling because of hydrostatic pressure
	Decreased spasticity
	Decreased pain
	Core strengthening

Who Can Benefit from Aquatic Therapy?

	Pregnant women
	Post mastectomy patients
	Patients with arthritis
	Patients suffering from athletic injuries
	Patients suffering from chronic pain, such as fibromyalgia
	Patients who have had joint replacement
	Patients suffering from neck and low back pain
	Patients suffering orthopedic dysfunction or surgery
	Patients with scoliosis
	Patients who have had a stroke or spinal cord injury
	Pediatric patients

Referrals
Referrals from a physician or nurse practitioner is required for physical therapy, occupational therapy and/or speech language pathology.  The referral should specify "Aquatic Therapy" to ensure that this will be part of the patient's rehabilitation program.

Maintenance Pool Program
Patients that have reached maximum benefit from their therapy program but feel that continued use of the pool would be beneficial, may choose to join our pool maintenance program. The program is run by volunteer staff. It is offered threes days a week and at five separate times. The cost is $5 an hour.

For More Information
For additional information about this program or related rehabilitation services, call (662) 377-7215 or 1-800-THE-DESK (1-800-843-3375).

Location
North Mississippi Medical Center
Longtown Medical Park
Outpatient Rehabilitation Center
4381 South Eason Boulevard<>
Tupelo, MS 38801

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