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Posted: 6:22 PM Jun 1, 2009
Aquatic Therapy Helps Children
For many kids who go to therapy, it seems like a chore. But one facility is making it a game with some fun in the sun.
Reporter: Vanessa Araiza Email Address: vanessa@wtvy.com |
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It's just another day in the pool for these kids. But what makes this swim different from others is how it's affecting these children.
Kristin Sumlar says, "We have our own pool here and we incorporate the aquatic therapy into speech, physical and occupational therapy."
Owner of Sumlar therapy in Ozark, Kristin Sumlar says aquatic therapy has been available at her center for the past five years.
And she says in that time, she's seen significant changes among the children that pass through her doors.
Sumlar says, "We've definitely seen improvements in balance, coordination, strength, endurance, respiratory endurance."
What makes this therapy unique is kids think it's just jumping and playing in the pool with some pretty cool toys.
Tera Andrew says, "You would be surprised at how well the water works your body and as a child; the more it can seem like play the more they're going to work for you."
Tera Andrew has been a therapist for 10 years. She says this type of therapy has many advantages compared to other methods.
Andrew says, "It provides them with a lot of resistance that they may not get on land."
Whether it's jumping in or splashing their feet, the kids are getting a full therapy session, with an added tan. Today was the first day of aquatic therapy for children. The center also holds another type of therapy using a horse.
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