The Difference between Aquatic Therapy and Regular Physical Therapy

The Difference between Aquatic Therapy and Regular Physical Therapy 

This blog is based on my personal experiences with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). For more information, please see my disclaimer.

Therapy on land or in a pool can both help with the joints, flexibility, and increase muscle strength while keeping muscles active. Therapy helps you learn safe ways to move and regain confidence in your body. It also provides structure and support, making progress feel achievable.

Years ago, when I was diagnosed, doctors were trying to figure out what type of therapy would be best for my situation. The first therapy I tried was land therapy. This one was the worst for my situation because when it was time to leave, I couldn’t walk. Electrical stimulation was also a part of this therapy along with physical workouts. The reason I couldn’t walk after this was that my ankle would swell up and prevent me from walking. This was overwhelming because I am a mom and I have things to do. I couldn’t just sit in pain all day. I had to find a solution. It’s like the smallest pressure was just too much for my ankle to handle. The therapist at the time had very little knowledge of my diagnosis, so this made it difficult for me to understand exactly what type of therapy I was supposed to be doing. The therapy session lasted about two hours, and when I was done I felt horrible. When I complained about the pain, I was told some pain is normal. So, me being a good patient, I tried again, and I was about to leave and couldn’t walk again. This was so annoying. This is when I said enough: I have to tell the podiatrist. When I told my doctor what was happening, he sent me to a nerve specialist, and they conducted a nerve test on me called Electromyography (EMG) and Nerve Conduction Study (NCS), which are done together to assess the functions of my muscles and my nerves.

This is when I was introduced to aquatic therapy. This therapy was very simple and easier for my condition. This therapy is very relaxing, and I am able to perform more without swelling. Working out in the water helps with the pressure I feel when I’m doing exercises on land. The reason I like this therapy better is that I can exercise with confidence and not have to worry about not being able to walk. Aquatic therapy allows me to move freely without worrying about falling. When I do this therapy, it doesn’t feel like I’m overdoing it. Sometimes I do experience pain and cramping in my ankle while doing aquatic therapy, but it’s nothing like I would feel on land. The pool water is warm, and the warm water helps with the stiffness in my ankle, which helps me move freely in the water.

I can say I really appreciate this therapy because living with chronic complex regional pain syndrome is very annoying. Taking the steps to find the right therapy made a huge difference for me. Aquatic therapy doesn’t cure the condition, but it helps me manage it in a way that feels safe and doable. The process may be gradual, but be patient with your routine that works for your body. Every step counts. With the right therapy, CRPS can feel manageable.

If you or someone you know is dealing with this situation, join the Facebook page or my private group, where we can share stories and support each other through the ups and downs of this journey. It’s a safe space to be real and to encourage one another. If you’re looking for a community, we’ll walk this road together.