A break for both
For Hilda, mother of Rocky Bay customer Elina, the option...
Rocky Bay customer Steven benefits from regular hydrotherapy sessions, playing a significant role in maintaining his independence.
Hydrotherapy is a therapeutic practice where the warmth of the water allows muscles to relax, alleviating pain and increasing joint mobility.
The buoyancy provided by the water is crucial, as it reduces the strain on the body, making movement easier and less painful.
Rocky Bay Senior Allied Health Assistant Sam Hannalla said Steven participates in two hydrotherapy sessions each week.
“These sessions have helped him maintain his aerobic fitness, manage fatigue and continue performing essential daily activities safely,” Sam said.
“Steven’s respiratory function has remained stable, and he has avoided hospitalisations for chest infections,” Sam said.
One of Steven’s key benefits of hydrotherapy is the increased mobility he experiences in the water.
“This mobility has enabled him to continue transferring independently between his wheelchair and other surfaces, such as his bed, toilet and shower bench for as long as possible,” Sam said.
“Maintaining this level of independence is important for Steven, and hydrotherapy has played a significant role,” Sam said.
Steven approaches his hydrotherapy sessions with a positive attitude and a commitment to completing his exercises.
“He’s very motivated and always keen to finish on time,” Sam said.
“Steven is also a friendly and polite young adult, always using his manners to communicate well with everyone,” Sam said.
Hydrotherapy is integrated with Steven’s other therapies at Rocky Bay, contributing to his overall care plan.
“This integrated approach helps delay the physical decline associated with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy and supports his ability to complete daily activities as independently as possible,” Sam said.
Steven recently worked with a Rocky Bay Occupational Therapist on complex home modifications, including a new bathroom design that supports his ability to transfer from his power wheelchair to the toilet for as long as possible, until he requires a shower commode.
Steven’s future goals will be to continue with hydrotherapy as long as possible, focusing on maintaining his functional mobility and maximising his lung function.
To assist with this goal, Rocky Bay’s Wishing Tree has granted Steven a 12 month membership to Leisurepark in Balga.
For more information about hydrotherapy at Rocky Bay, visit here.
Steven approaches his hydrotherapy sessions with a positive attitude and a commitment to completing his exercises
- Senior Allied Health Assistant Sam