Aquatic-Based Therapy in Spinal Cord Injury Rehabilitation: Effective Yet Underutilized

Purpose of review: The objective of this article is to review aquatic therapy, a historically effective yet highly underutilized therapeutic modality, in order to demonstrate that it is a valuable therapeutic tool in patients with spinal cord injuries (SCIs) and that it is an intervention that provides an environment of support and resistance which elicits motor performance improvements for patients with SCI. Recent findings: Aquatic therapy has been shown to improve mobility and quality of life and lessen spasticity and pain. It is highly effective in promoting overall recovery from SCI. Recent research shows that more people with SCI, particularly those who were perhaps previously excluded (colostomy bags, incontinence, mechanical ventilators), can participate in aquatic therapy interventions. Summary: Although the use of aquatic therapy has been shown to improve function, more research is required to thoroughly investigate it and to develop protocols and safety measures that increase the variety of patients with access to this therapy. Patients with spinal cord dysfunction should be given access to aquatic therapy in their local communities and rehabilitation centers so that the benefits of skilled aquatic-based therapies can be more widely achieved and integrated. Accessible community pools provide a setting for recreation and exercise with family and attendants, thus promoting improvement and maintenance of skills.