Child & Family Development Child & Family Development

March 16, 2015

Child and Family Development offers aquatic therapy: sensory benefits

Child and Family Development has offered aquatic therapy for more than 10 years and our first 2015 block has just begun! 

Two physical therapists lead this specialty service, both of whom are certified by the Aquatic Therapy and Rehabilitation Institute (ATRI):  

Pool therapy is a great complement to traditional physical therapy and occupational therapy intervention. The water provides a number of unique properties that are almost impossible to replicate on land.  

One sensory benefit of treating in the pool is the deep pressure input that is provided by the hydrostatic pressure of the water against all of the submerged body.  Not only does this increase awareness of the body, but it is calming too.

For the last 5 years, we have partnered with the Harris YMCA in Charlotte near South Park Mall.   The indoor pool has several features that are especially therapeutic including:

  • zero tide entrance, like walking into the ocean
  • whirlpool, with variable resistance and pressure 
  • heated water
  • floating equipment and toys 

pool

Read future posts about more benefits of aquatic therapy.