Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is therapeutic exercise performed in warm water to support movement, strength and rehabilitation.

Water reduces joint load, making movement easier and more comfortable.

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Hydrotherapy is often used for joint pain, recovery after injury or surgery, and long-term mobility conditions. Warm water can support relaxation while buoyancy allows safer movement.

What happens in a hydrotherapy session?

You will usually be assessed and guided through a tailored exercise programme in a pool. Sessions may be one-to-one or in small groups.

What can hydrotherapy help with?

Joint pain and stiffness
Rehabilitation following injury or surgery
Mobility and balance confidence

Safety and suitability

Hydrotherapy may not be suitable for certain medical conditions such as open wounds or uncontrolled cardiac issues. Screening and professional supervision are essential.

History of Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy has long been used in rehabilitation and wellbeing. Modern practice is closely linked to physiotherapy and rehabilitation science.

Typical conditions that use Hydrotherapy

Condition	Evidence	Notes
Balance issues support	moderate	Hydrotherapy for balance and vestibular rehabilitation.
Chronic pain	moderate	Hydrotherapy for low back pain.
Hip pain	moderate	Hydrotherapy for hip pain and mobility.
Joint pain	moderate	Useful where land exercise is limited by pain.
Knee pain	moderate	Hydrotherapy for knee pain.
Limited mobility support	moderate	Build confidence and function gradually.
Osteoarthritis support	moderate	Water-based exercise can support movement with reduced load.
Rheumatoid arthritis support (adjunct)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for RA management.
Stroke recovery support (adjunct)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for stroke rehabilitation.
Back pain (lower)	moderate	Can support movement confidence and conditioning.
Back pain (upper)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for upper back pain.
Bunions	moderate	Hydrotherapy for bunion foot management.
Fibromyalgia support	moderate	Hydrotherapy for fibromyalgia management.
Foot pain	moderate	Hydrotherapy for foot pain.
Long-term condition coping	moderate	Hydrotherapy for long-term condition management.
Lymphoedema (lymphedema)	moderate	Aquatic exercise for lymphoedema.
Multiple sclerosis support (adjunct)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for MS management.
Muscle cramps	moderate	Hydrotherapy for muscle cramps.
Parkinson’s support (adjunct)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for Parkinson's management.
PCOS support (adjunct)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for PCOS exercise management.
Peripheral neuropathy support (adjunct)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for peripheral neuropathy.
Plantar heel pain (plantar fasciitis)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for plantar fasciitis.
Postural pain	moderate	Hydrotherapy for postural pain.
Repetitive strain injury (RSI)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for RSI management.
Sciatica	moderate	Hydrotherapy for sciatica.
Sedentary lifestyle support	moderate	Hydrotherapy for sedentary lifestyle.
Shoulder pain	moderate	Hydrotherapy for shoulder pain.
Sports injury recovery support	moderate	Useful in early phases when impact needs limiting.
Swelling (oedema)	moderate	Hydrotherapy for oedema management.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need to be a confident swimmer?

No. Exercises are performed in shallow areas with supervision and adaptations for confidence.

What should I bring?

Swimwear, a towel and any aids recommended. Pool hygiene guidance will be provided.

Who should avoid hydrotherapy?

People with open wounds, contagious illness or certain cardiac/respiratory issues—seek clinical advice.