Aquatic Physiotherapy Level 1 - Part A

Aquatic Physiotherapy Level 1 is designed to provide participants with both foundation practical and theoretical knowledge on the clinical implications of the physiology of immersion, hydrostatics, hydrodynamics, rotational control and exercise in water. The course includes evidence-based practice, clinical reasoning and risk management in addition to practical sessions covering a variety of manual techniques and exercise programs and progressions.

This course is ideal for recent graduates, physiotherapists moving into this practice area or experienced physiotherapists wishing to undertake refresher CPD. The course is valuable in developing skills and knowledge to maximise water as an environment for physiotherapy and to provide safe, effective, and evidence-based treatment and plan progressions.

Aquatic Physiotherapy Level 1 is delivered through a blended learning model comprising three parts:

• Part A is the first component of the Aquatic Physiotherapy Level 1 course and consists of eleven OnDemand, self-paced modules
• Part B is offered as a standalone Live Virtual Classroom for those who want to participate in some immediate feedback and discussion about key topics, and is also combined with Part C delivered as part of the one day face-to-face session. Part B includes clinical reasoning and interactive discussions about key aspects of practice
• Part C is practical face-to-face pool-based learning, and is delivered together with Part B as a one day face-to-face session

Note: For those who to undertake Part B as a standalone Live Virtual Classroom, and then go on to complete the face-to-face one day session (Part B and C combined) at a later time, they will still be involved in Part B discussions again. This is an opportunity to have a variety of clinical discussions on key topics, as there will always be different questions about practice generated by the group. 

Diagram: Undertaking Aquatic Physiotherapy Level 1

Learning Outcomes

On completion of Aquatic Physiotherapy Level 1 – Part A, participants should be able to:

• Describe the main hydrostatic and hydrodynamic principles of water relevant to aquatic physiotherapy practice
• Describe the effects of immersion on the body and determine the implications for the prescription of cardiovascular exercise
• Outline evidence that supports aquatic physiotherapy practice for a range of conditions
• Identify how use of the APA Guidelines for Physiotherapists Working in and/or Managing Hydrotherapy Pools document ensure safe practice in aquatic physiotherapy
• Identify the principles of aquatic exercise selection and progression, treatment options, clinical reasoning and planning in practice
• Identify how person-centred practice can be incorporated to in clinical situations

CPD Hours

5.0 hours

Pre-requisites

• This course is designed and suitable for qualified physiotherapists.
• Part A is the pre-requisite for Parts B and C.

Important note: Part A must be successfully completed before you can progress to Parts B and C.

Image: Haley Phelps, Unsplash