Swimming pools are not just limited to physically fit and healthy swimmers. Swimming can provide an intense workout for skilled swimmers as well as a relaxing session for those who are not as capable or healthy. Water rehabilitation, also known as aqua therapy, is a form of physical therapy that is recommended by many medical professionals.
Water resistance creates different biomechanics for certain body movements, as compared to traditional physical therapy methods of weight resistance. Water is simply more soft on the joints and muscle, and allows for better physical rehabilitation. To get the best possible water workouts and results, people need certain aqua therapy and water rehabilitation equipment.
Floating body supports are one of the most common types of equipment used in water rehabilitation. The basic purpose of such equipment is to keep the head above water while allowing for easy motion in the water. Swim neck collars, floating discs and body supports are some good examples of such equipment.
A swim neck collar wraps around the neck and secures the head above water, allowing for free movements of all limbs. When using a body support float for aqua therapy, you simply lay down with your back or chest on the float and move your hands and feet freely through the water. Floating rings and discs simply slide over the arms or legs, and keep the head above water.
Such aqua therapy equipment should be made of durable material that will not puncture easily and will support plenty of weight. Some floats are inflatable, and feature valves for inflation. Other water rehabilitation equipment is made of special buoyant material, such as foam, and no air inflation is required. The latter type is usually the most durable, since it is made of solid and resilient material that can't be damaged easily. |
