Swimming is used for its greater freedom of movement, relief from stiffness and pain, sensory feedback and enjoyment. Hydrotherapy also includes a number of treatments with hot water, cold water or mixtures for general well-being. Sometimes offered as part of physiotherapy, as warm water is believed to make it easier to exercise. Hospitals, special schools, treatment centres and respite centres often have hydrotherapy pools, and there are also private spas.
Hydrotherapy Association (Godalming, Surrey), tel: 01483 426 999.
CP Sport, England and Wales, tel: 0115 925 7027, www.cpsport.org
Swimfriends UK, tel: 01243 789402,
www.swimfriends.co.uk (suppliers of buoyancy aids for disabled swimmers)
