Aquatic Therapy for Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation

Available on demand | 3.0 contact hrs | On-demand recorded webinar + distance learning module.

Description: This course examines the role of aquatic therapy in the management of individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS), using an evidence-informed and clinically grounded approach. Content focuses on how the unique properties of water can be leveraged to support mobility, balance, endurance, and movement efficiency while accommodating hallmark MS considerations such as fatigue, heat sensitivity, and fluctuating functional presentation. Participants will explore clinically appropriate aquatic therapy strategies that address common impairments associated with MS, including postural instability, weakness, spasticity, and reduced activity tolerance. Emphasis is placed on clinical reasoning, symptom monitoring, and individualized intervention planning to ensure aquatic therapy is delivered safely, adaptively, and purposefully within skilled rehabilitation practice.

To enroll 2+ learners, use "Buy Licenses' option below.

Format & Delivery

Format: Available on demand.

Recorded Webinar (2.5 hours) with Distance Learning Module (0.5 hours)

Total contact hours: 3.0 hours

Learning Objectives

After this course, participants will be able to:
• List three reasons why aquatic therapy should be considered the treatment of
choice for patients with multiple sclerosis (MS).
• List at least two evidence-based precautions for the patient with MS who chooses to
work in an aquatic setting.
• List 3-4 examples of justification language that should be integrated into the
documentation to demonstrate an ongoing need for aquatic therapy.
• Differentiate at least three evidence-based treatment ideas for the patient with MS.
• Distinguish two ways to progress treatment ideas from dependence to
independence

Additional Information about Course Content

Fatigue and Heat Sensitivity Management:
Participants examine how water temperature, session pacing, and activity selection can be used to support movement participation while minimizing symptom exacerbation and post-session fatigue.
Postural Control and Balance Applications:
The course explores how buoyancy, viscosity, and hydrostatic pressure can be used to improve postural stability, trunk control, and balance confidence in individuals with MS.
Strength, Endurance, and Movement Efficiency:
Content highlights aquatic strategies that promote strength and cardiovascular engagement without excessive joint stress or energy expenditure, supporting more efficient movement patterns.
Spasticity and Tone Considerations:
Participants learn how aquatic environments may influence tone and movement quality, with guidance on exercise selection, positioning, and progression for patients with spasticity.
Symptom Monitoring and Clinical Adaptability:
Emphasis is placed on recognizing day-to-day variability in MS presentation and adjusting aquatic interventions accordingly, reinforcing safe, responsive, and patient-centered care.

Target Audience Statement

This course is designed primarily for professionals with a basic understanding of physical medicine and rehabilitation. Those likely to benefit most are: Physical therapist & assistants, Occupational therapists & assistants, Recreational therapist & assistants, Speech & language pathologist & assistants.

Students who are at the basic level of skill acquisition and those who are at a higher level of skill, but who are looking for a course that provides "best practice" ideas for techniques currently practiced are also welcome.

This course can be applied toward 3 elective hours for individuals who are seeking their ATU Aquaticist credential.

This course does not focus on evaluation or examination of the patient and the content is within the scope of practice for the Assistant working under the supervision of the PT or OT or RT or SLP. While the primary audience for the course is the PT/OT/RT/SLP provider, other rehabilitation providers will find it beneficial.

CEU/CCU Information

Instructor:

Andrea Salzman, MS, PT graduated from the University of Alabama at Birmingham with a Masters degree in physical therapy. Salzman is the Founder and Owner of the Aquatic Resources Network, the largest multidisciplinary clearinghouse of information on aquatic therapy. She currently serves as Director of Aquatic Therapy University and has assisted hundreds of facilities during the start-up and training phases of their aquatic practice. Salzman has received the highest honor given to an aquatic physical therapist from the American Physical Therapy Association, the Judy Cirullo Leadership Award. She has been listed in Who's Who for Aquatics multiple times over the years. Over her career, she has served as:
• Editor-in-Chief, Journal of Aquatic Physical Therapy
• Manager, Regions Hospital Therapy Pool
• Adjunct Faculty, College of St. Catherine’s PT program
• Functional Design Consultant; Aquatic Therapy Facilities
• ARN Database Creator, 19,000 aquatic professionals
• Aquatic Health Research Database (AHRD) Creator, 8000 abstracts and growing
• Author, 5 aquatic therapy-related texts
• Monthly columnist, Aquatics International, Advance for PTs, Onsite Fitness, AusMed and other trade magazines

Patrick Jones - Course author

What's included in this online course?

A step-by-step guide

Your ATU instructor's expertise will help you master the fundamentals of aquatic therapy.

Study at your own pace

You can enroll in this course whenever you want, and study at your own time, location and pace.

Unique learning experience

We will learn with ATU's interactive courses with different media and quizzes, to improve your knowledge.

Course Lessons

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Disclaimer The content provided on this website is for educational and informational purposes only and is intended for use by licensed and student rehabilitation professionals. It does not constitute legal, medical, or billing advice, nor does it create a provider–patient or attorney–client relationship. While every effort is made to ensure accuracy and current compliance, laws, payer policies, and professional regulations vary by state and may change over time. Users are responsible for verifying all information with applicable federal, state, and payer rules before applying it in clinical or administrative practice. Participation in any ATU course, program, or resource does not guarantee licensure, certification, or reimbursement and should not be interpreted as a substitute for professional judgment, legal consultation, or individualized clinical decision-making. By using this site, you agree that Aquatic Therapy University and its affiliates are not liable for any errors, omissions, or outcomes resulting from use of this information.