Patient Information
Preparing for your visit
Please read the information below before your first appointment, and bring your completed registration form with you. If anything is unclear, contact us and we'll be glad to help.
What is aquatic physiotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is a form of physiotherapy that uses the properties of water — warmth, buoyancy and gentle resistance — to treat a wide range of conditions. In the water we can support the body for easier movement and early weight-bearing, assist or resist movement to stretch and strengthen, aid relaxation, improve circulation and reduce pain, and rebuild balance, control, fitness and confidence.
New clients are assessed on land before entering the pool. Clients undertaking self-help hydrotherapy must first have been assessed by a physiotherapist and be independent with their program.
Before you come
What to bring
- Your own bathers, towel and thongs (suitable footwear) where possible
- Your completed registration form for your first appointment
- Any important medications — such as heart or asthma medication — to keep at poolside
- Diabetic clients: please bring a sugary food for poolside
- Take all your usual medications before hydrotherapy
Wounds & foot care
- If you have a wound, we recommend covering it with Tegaderm before leaving home
- Wear thongs, crocs or suitable footwear in showers, change rooms and the pool area — avoid bare feet to help prevent tinea and other infections
Safety first
Please do not enter the pool if any of these apply
- You feel unwell, giddy or dizzy
- You have been drinking alcohol
- You have an infection — cold, flu, thrush, ear, or urinary tract infection
- You have a raised temperature
- You have an open or infected wound that is uncovered
- Your blood pressure is not well controlled
If you are ever unsure, please ask your physiotherapist, and always advise us of any change in your health, such as a cold or an ulcer.
At the centre
When you arrive
- Check in at reception in the foyer before entering the change area
- If no one is at reception, ensure the physiotherapist in the pool knows you have arrived
- Leave clothing in the change room; leave valuables at home or use a locker
Before entering the pool
- Go to the toilet
- Have a warm shower
- Remove contact lenses and hearing aids
- Advise the physiotherapist of any changes in your health
- Do not use talcum powder — it makes floors slippery and dangerous
In the pool
- Wait until the therapist advises it is safe before entering — chairs are available on the concourse (higher chairs on request)
- Never jump or dive in; enter and exit slowly, as directed by the therapist
- Take care — the pool area is slippery, especially with a walking aid. No running. Take care on the steps and ramp
- Walking frames are available at the top of both the steps and ramp; hoist access is available if you cannot manage them
- Only perform the number and type of exercises set by your physiotherapist, especially in your first session
- Advise your therapist of how you are feeling throughout the session
After your session
- Have a shower and dry your feet thoroughly
- Rest in the foyer for 10–15 minutes before heading home
- Rehydrate — there are two drinking fountains in the centre
- Smoking is not permitted anywhere in the Hydrotherapy Centre
We hope you enjoy the benefits of your hydrotherapy program. Please do not hesitate to ask your physiotherapist if you are uncertain about anything.
Registration form
Please complete before your first visit
Completing this in advance means more of your appointment can be spent in the pool.
Questions?
For appointments, referrals or any enquiry, contact Tanya on 0418 148 618 or tanyadeans@optusnet.com.au. Sessions run Monday and Thursday, 5:00–7:30 pm, at the Geelong Hydrotherapy Centre, 45–95 Ballarat Rd, North Geelong.