Dynamic Physical Therapy
Aquatic Therapy in Cottonwood Heights & Salt Lake City, UT

Find Relief and Improve Mobility with Aquatic Therapy
Struggling with pain, limited mobility, or recovery after an injury? Aquatic therapy offers a safe, low-impact solution to improve flexibility, strength, and overall function. At Dynamic Physical Therapy, our specialized aquatic therapy program uses the natural properties of water to help patients move more freely, reduce pain, and enhance rehabilitation.
How Aquatic Therapy Works
Aquatic therapy utilizes water’s buoyancy, resistance, and warmth to create a supportive environment for movement. This allows patients to:
- Perform exercises with less joint stress
- Improve strength, balance, and coordination
- Reduce pain and stiffness
- Enhance flexibility and mobility
- Recover from injuries and surgeries more comfortably
The water’s resistance provides gentle strengthening, while buoyancy minimizes impact on joints, making it an ideal option for individuals of all fitness levels.
Who Can Benefit from Aquatic Therapy?
Aquatic therapy is effective for individuals managing:
- Arthritis and joint pain
- Post-surgical rehabilitation (knee, hip, shoulder)
- Back and neck injuries
- Fibromyalgia and chronic pain
- Neurological conditions (stroke, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis)
- Sports injuries
- Balance and mobility issues
Patients who experience difficulty exercising on land often find aquatic therapy a more comfortable and effective alternative.
Key Benefits of Aquatic Therapy
1. Reduced Pain and Joint Strain
Water’s buoyancy relieves pressure on joints and muscles, allowing for pain-free movement while promoting circulation and muscle relaxation.
2. Increased Flexibility and Mobility
Warm water helps muscles relax, allowing for a greater range of motion. This makes it easier to perform exercises that improve flexibility and functional movement.
3. Safe and Effective Rehabilitation
The low-impact nature of water reduces the risk of injury, allowing patients to begin rehabilitation sooner and recover more effectively.
Frequently Asked Questions
What conditions does aquatic therapy treat?
Aquatic therapy benefits individuals recovering from surgery, managing chronic pain, or improving mobility after an injury. Common conditions include arthritis, post-surgical rehabilitation, sports injuries, neurological disorders, and general joint stiffness.
How is aquatic therapy different from land-based physical therapy?
The water’s buoyancy reduces joint stress, allowing for movement with less pain. It also provides resistance, improving strength, stability, and coordination. Aquatic therapy is especially beneficial for those who struggle with weight-bearing exercises on land.
Who should avoid aquatic therapy?
While beneficial for many, individuals with open wounds, severe respiratory issues, certain heart conditions, or difficulty entering and exiting the pool may require additional evaluation before beginning treatment.
Meet Our Aquatic Therapy Team
At Dynamic Physical Therapy, our team specializes in aquatic therapy, utilizing the unique properties of water to enhance rehabilitation and accelerate recovery. Our dedicated aquatic therapy pool provides an optimal environment for patients recovering from injury, surgery, or managing chronic conditions.
Matt Bauerkemper, PT, DPT, TPS – Aquatic Therapy Specialist
With extensive experience in aquatic rehabilitation, Matt brings expertise in utilizing water’s natural properties to enhance healing and restore function. Since earning his Doctorate in Physical Therapy from Regis University, he has developed comprehensive aquatic therapy programs that leverage water’s buoyancy, resistance, and hydrostatic pressure to benefit patients across all mobility levels. His background in sports rehabilitation and pain management allows him to create effective water-based exercises that build strength and improve function while minimizing stress on joints and tissues.
Matt’s approach to aquatic therapy combines evidence-based techniques with individualized care, making water-based rehabilitation accessible and effective for diverse patient needs. Whether working with post-operative patients, athletes in recovery, or individuals managing chronic conditions, he develops personalized aquatic programs that promote healing, build confidence, and restore functional movement. His extensive experience in orthopedic care, combined with specialized training in therapeutic pain management, ensures that each aquatic therapy session optimizes the healing environment while maintaining patient comfort and safety.
Get Started with Aquatic Therapy
If pain or mobility issues are limiting your daily activities, aquatic therapy can provide a safe and effective way to regain strength and movement. Contact Dynamic Physical Therapy today to schedule an assessment and take the next step toward improved health and function.