Aquatic Therapy
Our Aquatic Therapy is provided at UNC's Wellness Center at Meadowmont. Our program is designed to progress you toward your rehabilitation goals and work in conjunction with your land based therapy.
Aquatic physical therapy includes both the adult and pediatric populations. Sessions are based upon goals set out by the Physical Therapist during your initial evaluation and will progress, when appropriate, to land based therapy. The benefits of Aquatic Physical Therapy are due in part to the principles of buoyancy, support, resistance, water pressure and the neutral temperature. These principles assist in gaining flexibility, strength, endurance, body mechanics, postural function, balance, walking, coordination, and agility.
What to Expect with Aquatic Therapy:
After completion of your initial evaluation on land, you will be scheduled for your designated aquatic appointments established in your plan of care, if appropriate. Aquatic sessions are generally 1-2 times per week and in tandem with your land based therapy sessions. Therapy sessions are between 30-45 minutes in length, but may vary. The warm water pool is kept between 90-94 degrees and is fully accessible.
Your first session will include a brief orientation to the Aquatic Complex and light exercise as prescribed by your Physical Therapist. Please check-in at UNC Therapy Services prior to going to the pool. Please arrive at the pool on time with your bathing suit on and items stored in one of the lockers provided. We do not want to use your designated treatment time to get ready. Please do not bring your valuables in the Aquatic Complex without a lock to secure them. We are not responsible for any lost items.
What to bring:
- One piece bathing suit, shirt/shorts
- Towel
- Water shoes or shoes with non-slip soles are required
- Change of clothes
- Hygiene items
- Lock for locker, if desired
- Bottle of water
Precautions:
Patients with open wounds, incontinence of bowel or bladder, diarrhea, active infectious disease process (fever, vomiting, etc.), and uncontrolled/recent seizures will not be permitted in the pool.
