Aquatic Therapy
Aquatic therapy combines physical therapy and warm-water exercise to help people move with less pain and stress on their joints.
At Northwestern Medical Center, aquatic therapy is offered at Branon’s Pools, located at 248 Main Street in St. Albans. Patients work one-on-one with licensed physical therapists in a supportive, low-impact environment designed to improve strength, balance, mobility, and recovery.
NMC aquatic therapy patients also receive free access to the pool during designated walking hours five days per week.
- Low-impact exercise
- Warm-water therapy
- Help for pain, balance, and recovery
- No swimming experience needed
Start aquatic therapy
Ready to schedule aquatic therapy or learn if it’s right for you?
Who aquatic therapy may help
Aquatic therapy may help people recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, improving balance, or preparing for surgery.
It is commonly used for:
- Arthritis or joint pain
- Back, hip, knee, or shoulder pain
- Weakness or limited mobility
- Balance or walking problems
- Sports injuries
Aquatic therapy can help improve:
- Strength
- Flexibility
- Balance
- Endurance
- Confidence with movement
Many patients find they can move more comfortably in the water than on land, even if traditional exercise is painful.
You do not need to know how to swim to participate.
Ready to get started?
Aquatic therapy may help you move more comfortably with less pain.
Benefits of aquatic therapy
- Less pressure on joints
The water helps support part of your body weight, reducing stress on painful joints and muscles. - Easier movement with less pain
Warm water can help relax muscles and improve the range of motion. - Safe balance and mobility training
The pool provides a supportive environment for walking, balance, and strengthening exercises. - Low-impact strengthening
Water resistance helps build strength without the pounding of high-impact exercise.
What will my first visit be like?
Your first visit includes an evaluation with a physical therapist to discuss your symptoms, goals, and medical history.
Your first visit
Treatment sessions are typically:
- 30 to 45 minutes
- About two times per week
- Customized to your needs and comfort level
Treatment sessions
Our aquatic therapy program includes:
- A heated therapy pool
- Pool lifts for easier entry and exit
- Resistance and flotation equipment
- Individualized exercise programs
What our program includes
Do I need a referral for aquatic therapy?
Some insurance plans require a referral for physical therapy services, while others do not.
- Medicare typically requires a referral
- Many commercial insurance plans allow direct access
- Coverage varies by provider
If you are unsure, check with your insurance company before scheduling.
Not sure if aquatic therapy is right for you?
Our rehabilitation team can help determine the best treatment option for your needs. Aquatic therapy appointments are available through direct scheduling or provider referral.
Schedule aquatic therapy
You do not need to know how to swim to participate.
Aquatic Therapy
Services and conditions
- Aquatic Ai Chi
- Aquatic therapy
- Injury recovery and healing
- Restrictions
- Water-based exercise
- Water-based PT
- Water-based PT for weight-bearing
Find a provider
Meet the care team
At Northwestern Medical Center, our Aquatic Therapy program is led by experienced physical therapists Jennifer Banacos, PT, and Katie Guerino, PT. Using warm-water therapy, they help patients recover after surgery, manage pain, and improve mobility by reducing stress on the joints while building strength in a safe, supportive environment.
Contact, hours & location
Aquatic Therapy
Branon’s Pools
248 North Main Street
St. Albans, VT
Fax: 802-524-1025
Hours:
flexible based on patient need
Frequently asked questions
No. Patients do not need swimming experience to participate safely in aquatic therapy.
No. We work with adults of many ages and activity levels, including athletes, surgical patients, and people with chronic pain or mobility issues.
Yes. Our primary therapy pool is heated for comfort during treatment.
Not necessarily. While the water reduces impact and pain, exercises can still provide an effective workout.
Learn more about our Orthopaedic Center
At Northwestern Medical Center, our orthopaedics and rehab services teams work hand-in-hand, from first diagnosis through surgery (if needed) and into recovery, to make sure you get seamless, coordinated care. Our orthopaedic surgeons and physician assistants team up with physical and occupational therapists to design personalized care plans, whether you’re managing a sprain, joint issue, or planning a joint replacement.
Request a physical therapy appointment
