Aquatic Physiotherapy

The goal of Aquatic Physiotherapy at Ability Beyond Therapy is to provide individualised, goal-directed physiotherapy in a warm-water environment. Aquatic Physiotherapy uses the natural properties of water to support children’s movement, strength, balance, coordination, confidence and overall participation.

Aquatic Physiotherapy may benefit children with developmental delay, cerebral palsy, neurological conditions, Autism, Down syndrome, low muscle tone, muscle stiffness or spasticity, reduced strength and endurance, balance and coordination difficulties, joint pain, hypermobility, sensory-processing differences or reduced confidence in the water.

At Ability Beyond Therapy, each aquatic physiotherapy program is tailored to the child’s individual abilities, needs and therapy goals. Sessions may include activities targeting mobility, balance, gross motor development, strength, coordination, body awareness, water confidence and functional participation. Skills practised in the pool are selected to support the child’s participation at home, kindergarten, school and within the community.

Every child is different, and Aquatic Physiotherapy may or may not be suitable for every child. Before commencing sessions, the physiotherapist will consider the child’s medical history, physical abilities, water safety, support requirements and therapy goals. The frequency and structure of sessions are then arranged according to the child’s clinical needs, pool access and appointment availabilities.