The top three compelling reasons for therapists to embrace aquatic therapy for cardiac compromised patients are:
Improved Exercise Capacity: Aquatic therapy significantly boosts exercise capacity in cardiac patients. A systematic review by Adsett et al. (2015) revealed that aquatic exercise training enhances performance in the 6-minute walk test and peak power, matching outcomes of traditional land-based programs. It's an excellent alternative for those struggling with conventional exercise.
Reduced Arterial Stiffness and Enhanced Cardiovascular Function: Aquatic therapy effectively lowers arterial stiffness and improves cardiovascular health. Research by Park et al. (2019) demonstrated that aquatic walking exercises reduced leg arterial stiffness and heart rate while enhancing exercise tolerance and cardiorespiratory capacity, making it a powerful tool for improving cardiac function.
Enhanced Quality of Life and Physical Function: Aquatic therapy elevates quality of life and physical function for adults with chronic diseases. A meta-analysis by Faíl et al. (2022) showed significant gains in strength, balance, and cardiorespiratory fitness among participants, underscoring its broad applicability in enhancing well-being for cardiac patients.
In short, the evidence strongly supports aquatic therapy as a transformative intervention for cardiac patients, delivering improved exercise capacity, reduced arterial stiffness, and enhanced overall quality of life. Embrace this powerful therapeutic approach to elevate your practice and patient outcomes.
References
Adsett JA, Mudge AM, Morris N, Kuys S, Paratz JD. Aquatic Exercise Training and Stable Heart Failure: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. International Journal of Cardiology. 2015;186:22-8. doi:10.1016/j.ijcard.2015.03.095.
Park SY, Kwak YS, Pekas EJ. Impacts of Aquatic Walking on Arterial Stiffness, Exercise Tolerance, and Physical Function in Patients With Peripheral Artery Disease: A Randomized Clinical Trial. Journal of Applied Physiology (Bethesda, Md. : 1985). 2019;127(4):940-949. doi:10.1152/japplphysiol.00209.2019.
Faíl LB, Marinho DA, Marques EA, et al.Benefits of Aquatic Exercise in Adults With and Without Chronic Disease-a Systematic Review With Meta-Analysis. Scandinavian Journal of Medicine & Science in Sports. 2022;32(3):465-486. doi:10.1111/sms.14112.
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