"Pro Tips" when you are Starting Aquatic Therapy as a Stroke Patient . . .

As a stroke patient, perhaps you have been recommended for aquatic therapy. Hopefully, you had a chance to read my many posts on this blog about its extreme effectiveness, and you are eager to begin.

Still, you may have some questions. Don't worry, this post is just for you.

First, it's important to know you don't need to know how to swim. Yes, you will be in the water, but not "swimming" a swim stroke. Rather, you are immersed in the water to use the water as a recovery tool.

Also, if you are worried you may slip, or go under water, again, there's little risk. At each session, you will be accompanied by a physical therapist or that person's assistant.

Getting in and out of the pool has been considered as well. You are in physical therapy to regain what you have lost, and the session will ensure you are able to benefit from the pool. To get into the pool, you will use either a chair lift, a ramp, or if you are able, the good old ladder at the side of the pool.

Now, hopefully you feel confident and ready for your aquatic therapy session. Here's a few more pro tips for you. Don't forget a swimsuit! Also, bring a towel, and if you prefer, a coverup as well. Consider water shoes to protect your feet on the concrete bottom of the pool. We'll be doing some repetitions of various exercises, so you will be touching the bottom of the pool quite a bit.

Good luck in your path to recovery with aquatic therapy!