Recovering from Joint Replacements with Aquatic Therapy
Introduction Joint replacement surgery—especially hip or knee—is life‑changing for many Australians. The journey to regain full mobility often involves pain, swelling, and temporary limitations. Incorporating aquatic therapy into your rehabilitation plan offers significant benefit: easing transition from land‑based limitations toward functional movement sooner. Why Joint Replacements Benefit from Water‑Based Rehab New joints need protection from heavy loads while healing. Water reduces weight bearing load. Warmth helps with swelling, relaxing tight muscles surrounding the replaced joint. The ability to move more freely in water helps preserve range of motion and prevent stiffness. Water supports safe strengthening in earlier phases, before full load land work is possible. Typical Rehabilitation Timeline Weeks 1‑2 Post‑Op: Gentle water immersion if cleared, initial therapy focusing on pain relief, ankle/foot pumps, breathing, upper body movement (if shoulder replac...