Hydrotherapy in Townsville & Mackay
At Alliance Clinics, our experienced physiotherapists and allied health assistants offer hydrotherapy. It’s a gentle, safe, and highly effective way to improve your health and wellbeing.
What is Hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is exercise in warm water. The water supports your body and takes pressure off your joints, making it easier to move—like being in a low-gravity environment.
People often find they can move more freely in water than on land, especially if they have pain, stiffness, or muscle weakness. This makes hydrotherapy ideal for:
- Arthritis
- Balance concerns
- Chronic pain
- Neurological conditions
- Post-surgery rehabilitation
Being in the pool can also be empowering, especially for participants who use wheelchairs, as it provides freedom of movement they may not have on land.
Benefits of Hydrotherapy
- Improved muscle strength (upper & lower body)
- Better balance & coordination
- Boosted cardiovascular fitness
- Reduced pain, stress & anxiety
- Improved sleep
- Greater overall fitness
- Less joint impact and discomfort
Hydrotherapy FAQ:
Before starting hydrotherapy, our team will meet with you to complete an initial assessment and answer important questions like:
- Can you get in and out of the pool safely?
- Do you have any open wounds?
- Do you use a stoma or urinary bag? (This isn’t a barrier, we just need to plan accordingly.)
- Are you able to let us know if you feel uncomfortable in the water?
We’ll adapt everything to meet your needs—adding floats, support equipment, or a support worker if needed. You can also bring a support worker to help you change or join you in the session.
People with bladder/bowel control issues, chlorine sensitivity, or recent radiation therapy may not be suitable. Also, hydrotherapy is not recommended for osteoporosis if the goal is to build bone strength (land-based therapy is better for that), though it may help with related pain or stiffness.
In Townsville: The three pools Alliance Clinics works with are Kokoda Memorial Pool (Mundingburra), Long Tan Memorial Pool (Heatley), and Tobruk Memorial Baths (The Strand). Each pool is heated and is easily accessible for different requirements. Kokoda Memorial Pool has ramp access and a waterproof wheelchair which participants can be transferred into, and Long Tan Memorial Pool and Tobruk Memorial Baths have ramp access and a hoist and sling transfer option.
In Mackay: Our preferred facility is Mackay Aquatic & Recreation Complex. Other locations may be considered by arrangement.
Other Outreach: Please contact us for more info.
