PMR Help

[Silverfoxylady]

Does anyone find hydrotherapy useful ?

[PMRpro Ambassador]

For most of the 5 years I had PMR without being on pred I did aquafit classes in a warm pool at MY level, I started just doing about a 1/4 of the stuff and didn't finish the full hour if I felt it was too much though after about 8 months I could keep up with anyone unless it was bad day. I did a class every day Mon-Fri and the best days were the ones where the class was earlier rather than later. After doing the class I could often also manage either a Pilates or an Iyengha yoga class because I could move - even without pred. It kept me upright and mobile despite PMR. I discussed it all with the instructors in advance - and they were brilliant. There was someone with CFS/ME in the class too and she said she was amazed how much she was able to do after 6 months,

I posted a link the other day about Skinnyjonny - a former firefighter who was stuck in a wheelchair with PMR that struck while he was training for a long distance run. He was able to have hydrotherapy through the Fire Service and is sure it helped his relatively speedy recovery back to running. In the early stages of PMR it is particularly good as you have the support of the water but it is quite difficult to access it through the NHS. Going to a warm pool and just walking in the water helps - but whatever you may do as part of a normal class, remember that everything you do in the water takes 7x the effort it does on land. DON'T overdo it - but keep to your level and build up slowly.

[Hidden]

I havent tried it for pmr but every night at 9pmish i would love a few stretches or a swim in warm water. I did back rehab at a normal pool but they had a warm water session at 8am and physio gave me exercises. I found it really helpful then.

[Marilyn1959]

I am having hydrotherapy for replacement bone in shoulder, but yes it helps with PMR aches and pains too. I feel wonderful for three days after a session. If you can get it, take it is my advice.

[PMRCanada]

I’ve been doing deep water exercises (without a float belt....apparently my BMI is high enough that I float), for about a year, twice a week. Sometimes the water is cold resulting in a more difficult workout. I always feel better when I’m done. Lately I’m struggling with my shoulders so I’ve only gone once per week.

I also go in my hot tub which is divine.

Besides keeping my muscles and joints fluid and working, accomplishing moves under water, that I can’t do on land is gratifying, and gives me a sense of accomplishment. I’m not nearly as able or graceful out of the water.

[Telian]

I haven't but a friend had six sessions following back surgery and the supervision was key for her - some of the movements were too much even then. Once she found her level she loved it but she doesn't go anymore and I'm sure she would benefit long term. Make sure you have a good teacher who caters for all levels. You can't get any on the NHS unfortunately unless you've had surgery or an accident and you're referred to a class. They sound like a good idea and would give it a try.

I only did aquafit classes and it was too much as the classes weren't tailored to the less fit. As PMRpro says it has to be at your level. If I were to go back I would know what to do better this time - the classes were at different levels each session depending what the teacher decided - it was the wrong class for me and I damaged my hip. You do need to know your limitations.

[PMRpro Ambassador in reply to Telian]

It has to be at YOUR level - but a good instructor will help you decide how adapt the class for you. Mine - all 3 of them in a week - were terrific about it.

[GlynisE]

I swim once a week and then sit in the jacuzzi with the jets on my leg muscles. It certainly helps.

[OutdoorsyGal]

I love our hot tub. During the half-hour or 45 minutes of sitting under the stars, I do isometric exercises that really seem to help my sore wrists and legs.