SI joint pain, or sacroiliac joint dysfunction, can be caused by arthritis, injury, pregnancy, systematic inflammation, or infection. It is felt in the lower body and occurs when there is damage or injury to the joint, ligaments, cartilage, or muscles. Pool exercises can be beneficial for easing joint pain as water supports and reduces load bearing on joints.
Keep reading to learn more about hydrotherapy treatment for pain in your sacroiliac joints.
This blog article will outline how hydrotherapy can benefit those with SI joint pain:
- Hydrotherapy
- Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
- How does hydrotherapy help SI joint dysfunction?
- Getting started with hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy (also known as aquatic therapy) is water-based physical therapy used to assist in rehabilitation and recovery. Aquatic therapy is performed in a swimming pool and is a popular form of exercise amongst those looking to strengthen or rehabilitate particular muscles or joints. It is also a great form of physical activity for those wanting to improve their fitness and can be included as part of an exercise program.
Hydrotherapy can help you:
- Relax muscles and promote blood flow
- Ease joint pain by reducing load bearing
- Improve cardiovascular fitness and range of movement
- Reduce muscle pain, aches, and tightness
- Increase muscle strength
- Boost immunity
Sacroiliac joint dysfunction
The sacroiliac joints, or SI joints, link the pelvis and lower spine. The main function of the SI joints is to absorb shock between the upper body and the pelvis and legs. Primary mechanisms of sacroiliac joint dysfunction include too much movement (hypermobility) or too little movement (hypomobility).
The most common symptoms of SI joint pain and dysfunction are chronic low back pain, as well as hip pain, instability of legs, pain, numbness, tingling, and weakness in the lower extremity. According to Spine Health, the SI joint pain is responsible for 15% to 30% of all low back pain cases.
How does hydrotherapy help SI joint dysfunction?
Hydrotherapy can be a helpful workout to stretch muscles whilst providing pain relief. Exercising in a swimming pool provides your body with buoyancy and reduces pressure on the SI joint. Low impact exercises such as deep end water walking or running can increase blood flow to an area, which in-turn triggers a healing response.
Getting started with hydrotherapy
AHP Connect are now taking bookings for hydrotherapy appointments at our Carlton clinic.
We offer both individual and group sessions at our Carlton hydrotherapy pool. Group classes have a maximum of 8 people, as well as a qualified physio who is in the pool to assist participants. If you’re new to hydrotherapy, we recommend booking an initial consultation with one of our experienced physios. From there, you have the option to begin with one-on-one sessions before transitioning to a group setting.
It is important to consult with a trained physiotherapist or doctor to receive an accurate diagnosis regarding your injury.
Bookings are now open, with no referral needed. Contact (03) 4421 6644 or visit our booking portal to secure your space at our Carlton hydrotherapy clinic.
