The aquatic environment is supportive which can help with painful joints and muscles. The buoyancy of the water assists the body as well as provides resistance for strengthening. Warm water will also promote overall relaxation.

Those with decreased strength and endurance, limited range of motion, or impaired balance may benefit from the water. Some examples of diagnosis often seen in the pool are arthritis, stroke, fibromyalgia, developmental delay, and general deconditioning.

Swimming is not a necessary skill. Participants are able to touch the bottom of the pool at all times!

Even those afraid of the water can take part in aquatic therapy or classes. Our caring staff would be more than happy to help you adjust to the water. A licensed therapist will be with you at all times.

People who are bowel or bladder incontinent with only occasional accidents may use the pool with a special swim undergarment. Anyone with moderate to severe incontinence should consider other treatment options. Open wounds will also delay your start with aquatic therapy.

The first step is to contact your doctor and talk with him or her about your symptoms and needs. Your doctor will then refer you to occupational or physical therapy for an evaluation. Once need has been determined by your physician and therapist, aquatic therapy may begin.

Only licensed occupational or physical therapy professionals conduct aquatic therapy treatment sessions and classes.

People are able to achieve things in the water that are not always possible on land. For instance, if you couldn't lift your arms past your waist on land you may be able to raise them to shoulder level in water because of the water buoyancy will assist you. Walking is often less painful in water than on land due to the extra support of the water. Often the benefits of water carry over into your every day life.

How do I decide whether I need an aquatics class or individualized aquatic therapy?

The classes are designed for fitness and health maintenance purposes. Currently St. Mary Medical Center Rehabilitation Services is offering the following classes: R.E.S.T, Twinges-in-the-Hinges, and Splashtastic. Individualized aquatic therapy is for those with new or specific symptoms, particular deficits, or in the need for one-on-one attention.

Obtain an enrollment form by calling 309-344-9600 or you may print the forms out online. The R.E.S.T. and Twinges-in-the-Hinges enrollment form is here. The Splashtastic enrollment form is here. Next you will need to have your physician sign the form. Once that has been done, call St. Mary Medical Center Rehabilitation Services at 344-9600 to register. The class fee is due before your first day of class.

The arthritis and fibromyalgia classes consist of a warm-up period, cardiovascular segment, strengthening, and a relaxation technique called Ai Chi. All exercises are done at your own pace in a noncompetitive manner.

Both classes have similar exercises but intensity and duration of the class components vary. R.E.S.T is aimed at those with Fibromyalgia and Twinges-in-the-Hinges is designed for people coping with Arthritis.

Splashtastic is for kids ages 5-10 years old with disabilities of any type. The goal of the class is socialization, fitness, attention to task, and age appropriate play.

Please contact St. Mary Medical Center Rehabilitation Services at 309-344-9600 with any questions. We will be happy to assist you in any way possible.

Twinges-in-the-Hinges     R.E.S.T.     Splashtastic