AzOPT
Are you or a loved one struggling with knee osteoarthritis (OA)? While OA is a progressive, irreversible condition that may eventually require surgery, starting physical therapy early—especially aquatic therapy—can significantly delay the need for surgical intervention and improve quality of life.
Why Physical Therapy for Knee Osteoarthritis?
There’s a common misconception that physical therapy only delays the inevitable. But the truth is, physical therapy can help manage symptoms, build strength, and improve mobility. Even if knee replacement surgery is likely in the future, physical therapy is one of the best tools to:
* Decrease pain
* Improve function
* Support weight loss
* Strengthen leg muscles
* Prepare for post-surgery recovery
Whether or not surgery is on the horizon, exercise and weight loss are essential first-line treatments for knee OA.
Aquatic Therapy: A Game-Changer for Knee OA
Aquatic therapy provides a low-impact, highly effective way to exercise without increasing joint pain. In recent studies, individuals with knee osteoarthritis who participated in aquatic physical therapy two times per week for three months saw significant improvements in:
* Pain levels
* Daily function
* Quality of life
This makes aquatic therapy an excellent option for those who are hesitant or unable to perform traditional land-based exercises due to pain.
Benefits of Aquatic Physical Therapy
When conducted by a licensed physical therapist in a temperature-controlled pool, aquatic therapy:
* Reduces the impact on joints, making movement less painful
* Uses water resistance to strengthen muscles and improve endurance
* Allows “no-impact” activities like deep-water jogging
* Enhances range of motion and flexibility through buoyancy support
* Offers natural pain relief with warm water
These advantages make aquatic therapy ideal for people with knee osteoarthritis who may not tolerate traditional exercise programs on land.
Prehab for Surgery: Prepare Now, Recover Faster
Even if knee replacement surgery is inevitable, engaging in aquatic physical therapy beforehand (known as “prehab”) can speed up recovery. Strengthening the leg muscles and improving knee range of motion before surgery can reduce downtime and help you return to your normal activities faster and with less discomfort.
Where to Find Aquatic Therapy in Arizona
AzOPT offers aquatic therapy in Buckeye and physical therapy in Goodyear with easy access for residents of PebbleCreek and the surrounding area. Our Buckeye clinic features a heated, shallow pool and one-on-one sessions led by experienced, licensed physical therapists. Every program is tailored to your needs, whether you’re looking to avoid surgery, reduce pain, or recover faster.
For more information, please visit AzOPT.net or call 623-242-6908.