| Dynamic Muscle Stimulation to selectively improve muscle bulk and strength |
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| Proprioceptive Retraining |
| Laser and Ultrasound Therapy |
| Range of Motion Exercises |
| Graduated Hydrotherapy Programs |
| Weight Loss Hydrotherapy Programs |
| Fun and Fitness Swims |
In general orthopaedic diseases are either acute in onset with a reasonable period to return of function, or are chronic, progressively debilitating illnesses. In many cases there will be a surgical option to provide a foundation for recovery of function and ability. The surgery by itself will rarely deliver a completely successful outcome without considering options for rehabilitation. This can be aimed at recovering lost muscle mass and tone, improving joint range of motion and at recovering a level of aerobic fitness that has been lost as a result of exercise restrictions pre and post surgery.
We are seeing great benefits being derived from the application of physiotherapy and hydrotherapy in orthopaedic and spinal patients and believe that the combination of appropriate surgical/medical management and physiotherapy/hydrotherapy is the gold standard of treatment. The fact that this can all be done "in house" under the guidance of the surgeon dealing with the case is an added advantage over exporting these patients for a period of time with no ability to accurately assess response until the next revisit.
Many patients with chronic orthopaedic disease are overweight and are trapped in a "catch 22" where activity results in greater disability leading to less activity and increased weight gain. Hydrotherapy is a low impact activity that can increase caloric burning without increasing joint burden. Occasionally we will use hydrotherapy pre and post surgery in these patients.
