By Koketso Maraba
 
The newly opened Hydrotherapy pool at Chris Hani Baragwanath Academic Hospital will improve physiotherapy services and assist vulnerable patients with conditions such as Osteoarthritis, Fibromyalgia, ankylosing spondylitis, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, recovery after sports injuries and trauma.
This comes after the MEC for Health and Wellness, Nomantu Nkomo-Ralehoko opened the hydrotherapy pool on Tuesday, 21 May, to improve access to a tertiary level of rehabilitation services. 
"As we open these doors, we promise new beginnings and renewed hope for countless individuals seeking relief and rehabilitation. We are here to celebrate not just an opening but the possibilities of healing and wellness that this center will bring to communities," said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko. 
The Hydrotherapy pool will provide much-needed rehabilitation to patients suffering from arthritis by improving muscle strength and joint movement resulting in reduced pain, especially for patients waiting for hip and knee replacements. Similarly, hydrotherapy can reduce the recovery time of patients after hip and knee replacement surgery. This is because exercising in warm water reduces pain leading to a quicker recovery and improvement of joint movement, balance, and coordination. 
Hydrotherapy can reduce the spasticity of stroke survivors and also help to stretch stiff muscles. This improves the function and quality of life of patients. So, because elderly people have an increased risk of falling because of their decreased balance, strength, and mobility, exercising in the water can improve their balance, mobility, and strength and reduce their fear of falling. 
In addition, the MEC said this rehabilitation method is crucial for patients who struggle with traditional forms of physical therapy due to pain or severe stiffness. 
"This remarkable treatment method, which has proven its efficiency in countless clinical scenarios worldwide will benefit our patients greatly. This centre marks a pivotal step in ensuring that such innovative care is accessible to all, irrespective of their economic or social standing," said MEC Nkomo-Ralehoko.