Rehabilitation After Stroke: Aquatic Therapy Improves Pain, Mobility, and Balance

Joe received aquatic therapy while an inpatient at Helen Hayes Hospital. He suffered a stroke that left the right side of his body weak, uncoordinated, and in pain. The buoyancy and warm water (92 degrees) allowed him to relax tense muscles and move safer and easier than he could on land. He received hands on techniques to release tight muscles, and he participated in Water Tai chi (known as Ai Chi) to improve balance, joint range of motion, and relaxation.