The state of aquatic therapy use for clients with spinal cord injury or disorder: Knowledge and current practice

Aquatic therapy (AT) has been reported to be beneficial for individuals with spinal cord injury or disorder (SCI/D); however, AT has also been reported to be underutilized in SCI/D rehabilitation. We aimed to understand the knowledge and current practice of AT for clients with SCI/D by physiotherapists, physiotherapy assistants and kinesiologists across Canada.

A survey with closed- and open-ended questions was distributed (July-October 2019) to professionals through letters sent by professional associations. Non-parametric analyses were used to compare AT knowledge and practice between AT and non-AT users; content analysis was used to identify the themes from open-ended questions.

Seventy-eight respondents from 10 provinces were included in the analysis: 33 physiotherapists, 5 physiotherapy assistants and 40 kinesiologists. Respondents using AT (73%) reported greater knowledge of AT benefits and confidence to apply AT than respondents not using AT (p<0.01). Four themes were identified: 1-Variety of physical and psychosocial benefits of AT for people with SCI/D; 2-Attainment of movement and independence not possible on land; 3-Issues around pool accessibility; and 4-Constraints on AT implementation.

Respondents implemented AT to improve health outcomes for patients with SCI/D, despite facing challenges with pool accessibility and numerous constraints. Respondents who provided AT reported having better knowledge of AT and a supported AT practice in the work environment than respondents not providing AT. This study will inform AT stakeholders and institutions when considering strategies to increase the access to AT after SCI/D.