A recent study from Concordia University reveals that aquatic therapy not only strengthens muscles around the spine but also helps improve mental health in people suffering from chronic low back pain.
Researchers conducted a controlled trial with 34 participants who had chronic low back pain. The participants were divided into two groups: one took part in aquatic therapy, while the other followed a standard care program with land-based exercises.
The group receiving aquatic therapy experienced less fear related to pain, fewer sleep problems, and stronger back muscles compared to the group receiving standard care. These findings suggest that exercising in water can provide physical and psychological benefits for those with persistent back pain.
“Water therapy reduces the strain on the spine, which helps people feel better immediately,” said Maryse Fortin, an associate professor at Concordia’s Department of Health, Kinesiology and Applied Physiology. She explained that this makes aquatic therapy a good way to address fears of movement that come with pain.
Both groups improved their back strength, but only the aquatic therapy group showed growth in key spinal muscles that help stabilize the upper spine. These muscles are important for supporting the back and reducing pain.
The study also found that aquatic therapy helped reduce anxiety, fear of pain, and sleep problems—issues that often make chronic pain worse. These improvements were significant enough to make a real difference in participants’ daily lives.
Lead author Brent Rosenstein, along with co-authors Chanelle Montpetit and others, published the results in the journal Scientific Reports.
This study highlights the potential of aquatic therapy as an effective treatment for both the physical and mental challenges of chronic low back pain. More research is needed to better understand these benefits and how to apply them in health care.
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