Aquatic therapy has grown to become one of the most dynamic specialties in physical therapy. On the forefront of this trend are the products that are available to therapists to help maximize the rehabilitation benefits for patients. Featured here are some of the latest aquatic-therapy tools and services available today, which help patients easily dress for aquatic-therapy sessions, maneuver in water, and perform exercises in supported positions.

Power-Assisted Access-Lifting Device

Spectrum Aquatics introduces the Swim-lift® Traveler™ XRC battery-powered assisted access-lifting device. The Traveler XRC is affordable, made from stainless steel, has an extended reach, and is controlled by radio frequency. It complies with ADA/ABA laws and regulations related to public facilities that feature swimming pools and spas. Additional features include a certified 400-pound load capacity with a 1.5-safety factor, a 24-VDC operating system with a rechargeable battery and charger, a single anchor point, and a 5-year limited warranty.

For more information, contact Spectrum Aquatics, 7100 Spectrum Lane, Missoula, MT 59808; (800) 791-8056; www.spectrumaquatics.com.

Versatile Pool

The Endless Pool® Swimming Machine is used for swimming, cardiovascular fitness, and physical therapy. The Endless Pool’s broad, smooth, adjustable-speed current provides a wide range of therapy and exercise options. With its modular frame and custom sizes, it can be installed in almost any location. Its optional swim current gauge enables you to quantify the water-resistance levels for your patients and accurately repeat them. Grab bars, hydro-therapy jets, and interior benches increase the number of exercise options that can be performed in an Endless Pool. While the standard-size Endless Pool can accommodate up to four people, longer and wider pools are readily available. Call today and request a free DVD.

For more information, contact Endless Pools Inc, 200 E Dutton Mill Rd, Aston, PA 19014; (800) 233-0741 ext 4905; www.endlesspools.com.

Balance Training Bar

AquaJogger® introduces the latest addition to its growing line of aquatic exercise and therapy products. The TriFit Walker is constructed of two TriFit Max3 bars, plus a 36-inch crossbar featuring “snap-on” tees to connect the two bars. The TriFit Walker is excellent for balance and stability training during water walking and aquatic-therapy sessions. Bars can be taken apart and used independently for fitness and swim training lessons. Additional buoyancy bars are available to alter flotation.

For more information, contact AquaJogger, 4048 W First Ave, Unit B, Eugene, OR 97402; (800) 922-9544; www.aquajogger.com.

Easy On/Off Bathing Suit

Aquatics by Sprint introduces the Adapted Bathing Suit, an easy-on, easy-off bathing suit that is ideal for people with joint pain, tremors, or weakness in the hands and fingers. It increases independence to wear and remove a bathing suit with little or no assistance from a caregiver. The suit is ideal for people with Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, arthritis, or weakness on one side of the body. Secure fabric-fastener closures, conservative leg cuts, and wide straps with crossover bodice panels secure the suit tightly to the person, allowing for a custom fit every time.

For more information, contact Aquatics by Sprint, PO Box 3840, San Luis Obispo, CA 93403; (800) 235-2156; www.sprintaquatics.com.

Educational Seminars

To help physical therapists (PTs) and their patients achieve the most benefit from the use of its pools, SwimEx Inc introduces two educational programs that are unique to the marketplace: an In-Service Program and a Continuing Education series. With the In-Service Program, a licensed and SwimEx-trained PT will conduct a daylong seminar at the customer’s place of business. Topics covered will include aquatic-therapy principles, therapeutic exercise, chart documentation, marketing, reimbursement, and pool maintenance. With the Continuing Education series, SwimEx will provide a state-approved advanced seminar series for lower-extremity and spinal rehabilitation.

For more information, contact SwimEx Inc, 846 Airport Rd, Fall River, MA 02720; (800) 877-7946; www.swimex.com.

Floating Parallel Bars

Kiefer Aquatic Therapy and Fitness offers parallel bars that safeguard patients while they walk in water. Patients can fully bear their weight without fear of going under water. Similar to parallel bars in the physical-therapy gym, this lightweight yet extremely buoyant device floats on the surface of the water, assisting both the patient and therapist. Frontal, lateral, and posterior support are provided, facilitating a dynamic style of learning. Patients that require something to hold, lean, or fall onto while they exercise receive both physical and psychological support. Based upon a design used by Duke University Medical Center’s Sports Medicine and Adult Physical Therapy Departments, Durham, NC, the aquatic parallel bars are not restricted by the size or depth of a pool.

For more information, contact Kiefer Aquatic Therapy and Fitness, 1700 Kiefer Dr, Zion, IL 60099; (800) 323-4071; www.kiefer.com.