Children with Disabilities Hydrotherapy in Ukraine

As I recently walked down the hallway, there was a loud laugh followed by a splash. Wondering who jumped in the pool, I realize there was a new participant in the Hydrotherapy program. Dmitro,* a 12-year-old young man who has Cerebral Palsy, had thrown some of his exercise equipment into the pool. He was being entering the pool with the therapist and his mother, who decided to assist in the session. Natalia* was ready to get to work as she focused on learning how to stretch her son's muscles and take his physical therapy to new levels. 

Parental involvement in therapeutic services has improved more than just morale. Parents are able to replicate some of the exercises outside of hydrotherapy to their daily life. Therapists are modeling movements and how to set boundaries with the children, so that parents learn from actively participating with the hydrotherapy program. Although one can debate the role of parents in their children's therapy, so far most parents at Dzherelo Centre are able to learn and communicate better with their child with severe special needs. Additionally, parents are using the pool, which is a treat for them, too. Quality time with a child is always a god thing. 

So far in 2019, we have seen an increase in children obtaining services from physical therapy and psychology departments, including Hydrotherapy. Our team of specialists are continuously updating their skills and encouraging parental involvement. 

*names changed to respect confidentiality of minor and his family. 

In 2018 year, 359 Hydrotherapy sessions have taken place! During the year, children have had the opportunity to jump in the water, gain strength, and forget that the water is helping them to develop new skills. Children who struggle with muscle issues and gross motor skills have worked towards developmental milestones with the help of their parents and physical therapists. 

Most of the year was an active one. Two physical therapists were the Hydrotherapy team who worked in conjunction with other therapists. Although Dzherelo Centre closed for August and had the pool drained and cleaned, therapists were busy creating unique treatment protocols for children who have conditions such as Cerebral Palsy and Autism. The child to therapist relationship is an important one as skills gained are recognized immediately. 

The pool is active on most days and the youth have become to appreciate the warm water as soothing and fun. Parents observe the sessions, mostly to see their child do things in the pool that they have yet to do outside of water. The therapists are supportive of parents joining the session, if parents choose. 

We look forward to more sessions and continue support of the Dzherelo Children’s Rehabilitation Centre’s Hydrotherapy project in 2019. Thank you for your interest in the program.