Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy: Everything You Need to Know

The Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy is a professional organization that provides education and resources for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants who work with patients in aquatic environments. The organization is a part of the American Physical Therapy Association (APTA) and is dedicated to advancing the practice of aquatic physical therapy through research, education, and advocacy.

The APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy offers a variety of resources for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants who work in aquatic environments. These resources include online courses, webinars, and a clinical competency certificate program. The certificate program is an assessment-based course that provides PTs and PTAs with a comprehensive study of the fundamental knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide safe, evidence-based patient care using the aquatic environment. It is important to note that there is not a credential associated with the completion of this program as it is not recognized by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists (ABPTS).

Aquatic physical therapy is a specialized area of physical therapy that involves the use of water to help patients recover from injuries, surgeries, and other conditions. The buoyancy of the water reduces the impact of gravity on the body, making it easier for patients to move and exercise without putting stress on their joints. Aquatic physical therapy can be particularly beneficial for patients with conditions such as arthritis, fibromyalgia, and chronic pain.

Foundations of Aquatic Physical Therapy

Aquatic Physical Therapy is a specialized form of therapy that utilizes the unique properties of water to provide therapeutic benefits to patients. The Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy is a leading organization that provides education and resources to physical therapists who wish to specialize in this field.

Aquatic Historical Perspective

The use of water for therapeutic purposes dates back to ancient times. In fact, the ancient Greeks and Romans used water as a form of therapy for a variety of ailments. However, it wasn't until the 20th century that aquatic therapy became a recognized form of physical therapy.

Physiology of Immersion

The physiology of immersion is a key component of aquatic physical therapy. When a patient is immersed in water, the hydrostatic pressure of the water helps to reduce swelling and improve circulation. Additionally, the buoyancy of the water helps to reduce the weight bearing on the joints, which is particularly beneficial for patients with arthritis or other joint-related conditions.

Aquatic Physics

The physical properties of water are also important in aquatic physical therapy. For example, the viscosity of water provides resistance to movement, which can be used to strengthen muscles. The surface tension of water can also be used to provide support for patients who have difficulty standing or maintaining balance.

In summary, the Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy provides education and resources to physical therapists who wish to specialize in aquatic physical therapy. The unique properties of water, including its hydrostatic pressure, buoyancy, viscosity, and surface tension, make it an ideal medium for therapeutic exercise and rehabilitation.

Educational Pathways

The APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy offers a variety of educational pathways for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants to expand their knowledge and skills in aquatic physical therapy. The academy's educational programs are designed to provide participants with the fundamental knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide safe and effective patient care using the aquatic environment.

Clinical Competency Certificate

One of the most popular educational pathways offered by the APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy is the Clinical Competency Certificate. This certificate program is designed for aquatic physical therapy professionals who want to enhance their clinical skills and knowledge. The program consists of seven online modules and a three-day hands-on training course. Participants who successfully complete the program will earn a certificate of completion and will be able to demonstrate clinical competency in aquatic physical therapy.

Online Courses and Registration

The APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy also offers a variety of online courses for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants. These courses cover a wide range of topics, from aquatic physical therapy for neurologic patients to aquatic exercise for older adults. Participants can register for courses through the academy's website and complete them at their own pace.

To register for online courses or the Clinical Competency Certificate program, interested individuals must create an account on the academy's website. Once registered, participants will have access to the academy's online learning center, where they can view course materials, complete assignments, and track their progress.

Overall, the APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy provides a range of educational pathways for physical therapists and physical therapist assistants to expand their knowledge and skills in aquatic physical therapy. Whether participants are interested in earning a certificate of completion or simply want to take an online course, the academy's educational programs are designed to provide a high-quality learning experience.

Professional Development

The Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy (AAPT) provides various opportunities for professional development. These opportunities are designed to help physical therapists and physical therapy assistants to improve their skills and abilities in aquatic physical therapy.

Continuing Education Units (CEU)

The AAPT offers a range of continuing education courses that provide CEUs. These courses are designed to help physical therapists and physical therapy assistants to meet their CEU requirements while improving their knowledge and skills in aquatic physical therapy. The courses cover a range of topics, including aquatic exercise, aquatic therapy, and aquatic rehabilitation.

Research and Evidence-Based Practice

The AAPT is committed to promoting research and evidence-based practice in aquatic physical therapy. The organization publishes the Journal of Aquatic Physical Therapy, which is a peer-reviewed, indexed resource for dissemination of research and scholarly work related to the field of aquatic physical therapy. The journal promotes the integration of evidence into theory, education, and practice.

The AAPT also provides clinical competency information sheets that outline the fundamental knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide safe evidence-based patient care using the aquatic environment. These sheets are designed to help physical therapists and physical therapy assistants to improve their clinical competency in aquatic physical therapy.

The AAPT is not recognized by the American Board of Physical Therapy Specialists (ABPTS), and the completion of their Clinical Competency Certificate program does not result in a credential. It is important to note that the program is assessment-based and does not include a formal examination.

Overall, the AAPT provides a range of opportunities for professional development in aquatic physical therapy. These opportunities are designed to help physical therapists and physical therapy assistants to improve their skills and abilities while promoting research and evidence-based practice in the field.

Clinical Practice and Competency

The APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy offers a Clinical Competency Certificate program that provides physical therapists (PTs) and physical therapist assistants (PTAs) with the essential knowledge, skills, and abilities necessary to provide safe and effective patient care using the aquatic environment.

Evaluation and Exercise

The program covers a range of topics, including aquatic evaluation, exercise, Halliwick, Ai Chi, gait, balance training, and muscle performance. Participants will learn how to apply critical thinking and aquatic interventions to enhance patient outcomes.

The program's prerequisites include a basic understanding of aquatic therapy principles and techniques and a minimum of six months of clinical experience in aquatic therapy. Participants must also have access to a pool for the duration of the program.

Specialized Techniques and Interventions

The Clinical Competency Certificate program covers specialized techniques and interventions, such as Halliwick, which is a method of aquatic therapy that focuses on improving balance, coordination, and motor control. Ai Chi, another specialized technique, is a form of aquatic exercise that combines deep breathing and slow, flowing movements to promote relaxation and improve balance.

Participants will also learn how to use aquatic therapy for gait and balance training, as well as muscle performance. The program emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice and provides participants with the tools to critically evaluate research and apply it to their clinical practice.

In conclusion, the APTA Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy's Clinical Competency Certificate program provides PTs and PTAs with the essential knowledge and skills to provide safe and effective patient care using the aquatic environment. The program covers a range of topics, including aquatic evaluation, exercise, specialized techniques and interventions, and emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice.

Operational Excellence

The Academy of Aquatic Physical Therapy (AAPT) is committed to providing operational excellence in all aspects of aquatic physical therapy. This includes risk management and safety, as well as aquatic billing and documentation.

Risk Management and Safety

The AAPT recognizes that water safety is of utmost importance in aquatic physical therapy. To ensure the safety of patients and staff, the AAPT recommends that all aquatic physical therapy providers follow established safety protocols. This includes ensuring proper pool chemicals and safety equipment are in place, as well as having trained personnel on hand to respond to emergencies.

To further mitigate risk, the AAPT recommends that providers conduct regular safety audits and risk assessments. These assessments can help identify potential hazards and provide guidance on how to address them. By taking a proactive approach to risk management, providers can help ensure the safety of their patients and staff.

Aquatic Billing and Documentation

Effective billing and documentation practices are essential for the success of any aquatic physical therapy program. The AAPT recommends that providers use clear and concise documentation practices to ensure accurate billing and to facilitate communication between providers.

To help providers stay up-to-date on billing and documentation practices, the AAPT offers a wide range of educational resources. These resources include webinars, learning paths, and booklets. By staying informed on the latest billing and documentation practices, providers can help ensure the financial success of their aquatic physical therapy programs.

In conclusion, the AAPT is committed to providing operational excellence in all aspects of aquatic physical therapy. By following established safety protocols and best practices for billing and documentation, providers can help ensure the success and safety of their aquatic physical therapy programs.