Crawford (2025) Effects of Aquatic Therapy on Joint Mobility and Muscular Strength of an Adult Male with Spastic Cerebral Palsy
Aquatic Therapy Improves Strength and Mobility in Adults with Spastic Cerebral Palsy
Introduction: A Low-Impact Solution for Complex Motor Challenges
Cerebral palsy (CP) is a lifelong motor disorder caused by early brain injury. Individuals with spastic CP experience increased muscle tone and reduced mobility, often limiting their quality of life. Aquatic therapy has emerged as a supportive intervention due to the buoyancy and resistance properties of water, which reduce joint stress and allow safer movement. This 2025 case study by Crawford et al. explores the effects of a 6-week aquatic therapy program on joint mobility, muscular strength, and emotional wellbeing in an adult male with spastic quadriplegic CP.
Methodology: A Focused, Individualized Intervention
The participant underwent bi-weekly one-hour aquatic therapy sessions over six weeks. Exercises targeted both upper and lower extremity strength and mobility. Goniometric and dynamometric assessments were used to evaluate joint range of motion and muscle strength in the shoulders, ankles, triceps, and quadriceps. Additionally, emotional state was self-reported before and after each session using a selection of descriptive words.
Key Findings: Statistically and Clinically Significant Gains
The participant demonstrated statistically significant improvements in:
-
Left shoulder flexion and right ankle dorsiflexion
-
Triceps and quadriceps strength on both sides, with strength gains up to 219%
-
Emotional wellbeing, with participants consistently reporting improved mood post-session
Not only did the subject show measurable physical gains, but daily functional activities also became more controlled and fluid. The participant acquired new motor skills both in and out of the water.
Conclusion: Aquatic Therapy as a Promising Modality
This study underscores the powerful impact of aquatic therapy in improving neuromuscular function and quality of life in adults with spastic CP. Even in a single-subject design, the observed strength increases and emotional benefits suggest that aquatic interventions can offer meaningful results when traditional therapies plateau.
