Aquatic Therapy

Name: Virginia Physical Therapy and Fitness Center
Address: 11800 SUNRISE VALLEY DRIVE, RESTON, VA, 20191, US
Telephone: 703-709-1116
Rating: 5.0

Aquatic therapy is typically the first step in rehabilitation for post-surgical patients or patients suffering from a painful injury. Water serves as a highly effective, nearly weightless environment that offers the ability to improve strength, flexibility, and function to progress recovery.

The Hydroworx 300 is a revolutionary underwater treadmill that allows patients to rehabilitate injuries while only bearing 20-25% of their weight. This weightless environment results in:

Faster post-surgical rehabilitation
Reduced inflammation and pain
Increased joint range of motion and enhanced mobility
Improved muscle strength & flexibility
Improved balance
Effective cardiovascular training without wear & tear on joints

Frequently Asked Questions

What should I expect / wear for my aquatic therapy sessions?

Many patients wear bathing suits, but any clothes that you don’t mind getting wet are acceptable. Some patients wear shorts/compression shorts and t-shirts/sports bras.
Most patients are comfortable being barefoot in the aquatic treadmill, but some wear aquatic shoes. Shoes with laces of any kind are not allowed in the aquatic treadmill.
VTFC provides towels to all aquatic patients, but many patients prefer to bring their own towels.
The VTFC locker rooms are immediately adjacent to the aquatic treadmill room. Private showers are available in both the men’s and women’s locker rooms for patients to use after aquatic treadmill use.
It is also recommended to bring a change of clothes and toiletries that you may use after your aquatic therapy session.

Do I have to be a patient of VTFC to use the VTFC aquatic treadmill?

You do not have to be a patient to use the aquatic treadmill at VTFC. Many clients, ranging from long-distance runners in training and clients who enjoy aquatic therapy, can rent time on the aquatic treadmill. Clients can choose either a 30-minute session or 60-minute session when renting time on our Hydroworx Sport 300 aquatic treadmill.

How long does an aquatic therapy session last?

Physical Therapy sessions in the aquatic treadmill are typically 1-hour sessions. Our physical therapy staff can work with patients if they are not able to be in the aquatic treadmill for the full hour. Some patients benefit from a mixed therapy session where they are in the aquatic treadmill for half the session and treated on a treatment table for half the physical therapy session.
Sessions for clients who rent time on our aquatic treadmill can choose either 30-minute or a 60-minute sessions.

Will I have to swim or put my head under water?

Nearly all of our aquatic exercises keep your head above water. The most common water depths are chest high or waist deep. Swimming is not a common activity in our aquatic treadmill. Due to the dimensions of the aquatic treadmill it would be difficult to actually swim.