Aquatic Therapy Sees Results

For Immediate Release

12/12/2006




Since July, Mansfield Orthopaedics at Copley, the practice of doctors Glen Neale, Bryan Huber, Eric Mullins, Richard James and Certified Physician Assistant Nella Wennberg, has been operating out of a new facility located at 555 Washington Highway.  Today’s facility is more than a clinic; one would describe it as a musculoskeletal center of excellence.  In addition to clinic rooms, the new facility offers on-site digital radiology (x-ray services), interventional pain management, sports medicine and a complement of rehabilitation services. 
 
Therapists, including those from Copley and two private therapists; Keith Geissler and Phil Sweet, offer physical, occupational, and thanks to the generosity of the Freeman Foundation of Stowe, aquatic therapy.  “Aquatic therapy is a beneficial form of therapy that is useful for a variety of medical conditions.  We are grateful for their gift,” states Peter Wright, Senior Director Planning, Development and Group Medical Operations. 
 
An advocate for aquatic therapy, Dr. Huber describes the service as essential to achieve the optimal recovery post injury.  “Increasing patient’s mobility is one of our top priorities after surgery.  Aquatic therapy allows us to accelerate the rehab process.”
 
Benefits that aquatic therapy provide over dry land rehabilitation include:

1.      Decreasing stress on muscles, joints, and bones while improving early motion and function.

2.      Improve muscle relaxation with warm water allows for better joint range of motion.

3.      Improves blood circulation from the legs to the heart, reduces swelling in lower extremities and reduces joint tenderness.

 
Dr. Huber explained how the adjustable floor allows patients to enter the pool without using a ladder, noting, “This also allows patients to work at different depths depending on their injury.”   Another feature this pool provides is a built in treadmill which allows patients to walk/run in a semi weightless environment and still gain all the benefits of rigorous exercise.  The directional jet system is essential for rehabilitation, resistance exercise, sports training and deep tissue massage.   Underwater cameras, that project front and side views, allow the patient and therapist to adjust gait consistency, promote proper biomechanics and gain valuable feedback while exercising.

 
Vincent Faraci, a certified athletic trainer, is seeing good results with his patients who are using the pool.  He feels the therapy is beneficial and versatile, especially for people diagnosed with the following:            

• Athletic injuries
• Pre-post hip or total knee replacement
• Lower extremity fracture
• ACL repair or construction
• Rotator cuff repair
• Herniated disc
• Balance dysfunction
• Arthritis