Hydrotherapy Physiotherapy Services Sydney
People First Therapy provides one-on-one hydrotherapy for NDIS participants, older adults receiving Home Care Packages, and people who benefit from exercising in water.
Our physiotherapists get in the water with you to provide personalised support, helping improve mobility, strength, confidence and independence.
What is hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy, also known as aquatic physiotherapy, is physiotherapy treatment performed in warm water under the guidance of a physiotherapist.
The water environment helps reduce the load on your joints and supports movement, making it suitable for people who find exercise on land painful, difficult or unsafe.
Hydrotherapy can help with:
- Improving mobility and walking
- Maintaining strength and function
- Improving joint range of motion
- Reducing pain and stiffness
- Building confidence with movement
Our Hydrotherapy Service
One-on-One Hydrotherapy With Your Physiotherapist
Our physiotherapists are always in the water with you, providing direct support, guidance and assistance throughout your session. Unlike generic pool classes, your program is tailored to your abilities and goals.
NDIS Hydrotherapy Services
We provide hydrotherapy for NDIS participants with physical disabilities, neurological conditions and complex mobility needs. Sessions focus on improving mobility, maintaining function, managing pain and supporting your NDIS goals.
Hydrotherapy for Older Adults & Home Care Packages
Hydrotherapy can help older adults maintain strength, mobility and independence. It is especially beneficial for people experiencing arthritis, joint stiffness, pain, weakness or difficulty moving on land.
Improve Strength, Mobility & Walking
Water provides support and reduces the impact on joints, allowing many people to carry out movements that are difficult on land. We help improve walking, balance, range of motion and confidence with specific water weights.
Support for Complex Disabilities
We support children and adults with a wide range of disabilities, including cerebral palsy, Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries and acquired brain injuries.
Our physiotherapists use specialised equipment and hands-on assistance to help clients participate safely.
Pain Relief & Joint Movement
The warm water and buoyancy of water can make movement more comfortable for patients experiencing pain, arthritis, stiffness and reduced mobility.
Hydrotherapy for NDIS Participants
People First Therapy is a registered NDIS provider offering physiotherapy and hydrotherapy services across Sydney.
Which NDIS support categories cover hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is typically funded under:
-
Improved Daily Living (Support Category 15) — the most common category for physiotherapy and aquatic physiotherapy
The right category for you will depend on your plan and your goals. If you're not sure, our team can help clarify this with you or your support coordinator.
We support NDIS participants who are:
- Agency managed
- Plan managed
- Self managed
Hydrotherapy for Older Adults & Home Care Packages
One-on-one hydrotherapy for older adults to help manage arthritis, pain, balance and falls risk. We work with your aged care provider to support mobility and independence.
How our hydrotherapy sessions work
1. Initial Physiotherapy Assessment at home
Before starting hydrotherapy, your physiotherapist will complete an assessment at your home. We assess your mobility, goals, safety needs and how hydrotherapy can best support you.
2. Personalised Pool Program
Your physiotherapist will develop a program based on your abilities and goals. This may include walking practice, strengthening exercises, balance activities, stretching and supported movement.
3. One-on-One Pool Sessions
We attend local pools close to your home and your physiotherapist will be in the water with you for every session.
We provide hands-on assistance and use equipment such as flotation devices, pool noodles, resistance equipment and Pelican belts where appropriate.
4. Progress and Review
Your program changes as you progress. We regularly review your goals and adjust exercises to ensure your therapy remains meaningful and achievable.
Why choose People First Therapy
At People First Therapy, we believe therapy should be personalised, meaningful and enjoyable.
Our difference is that our physiotherapists get in the water with you. This allows us to provide direct support, understand your movement challenges and create a program that is safe and effective for your individual needs.
We work with people who may not be suitable for general aquatic exercise classes, including those with significant mobility limitations or complex disabilities.
Learn more about us
Personalised Care: To meet your unique needs and goals.
Experienced Team: Years of expertise and a compassionate approach.
NDIS Registered: We're accredited to provide NDIS services.
Mobile Services: Therapy services in the community or direct to your door.
Evidence-Based Treatments: Grounded in the latest research.
Holistic Approach: We consider your physical, emotional, and social well-being.
Frequently asked questions
What should I wear to a hydrotherapy session?
Comfortable swimwear is all you need — a swimsuit, board shorts, or whatever you usually wear in the water. We'll let you know if there's anything specific to bring for your first session.
Do I need to be able to swim?
No. You don't need to be able to swim to do hydrotherapy. Sessions take place in shallow, warm water, and your physiotherapist is in the pool with you throughout. We work within what's comfortable and safe for you.
Which pools do you use in Sydney?
We work at a range of pools across Sydney, including public pools and aquatic centres. Some examples are Ripples in St Mary's, Ryde Aquatic Centre, Waves in the Hills, Ashfield Aquatic Centre.
When we get in touch, we'll find out which pool options are closest to you and work out what's most practical.
What people say about us
I am very happy with the physiotherapy service provided by Chris for my daughter, who has Global Developmental Delay with low muscle tone. Over time, I’ve seen positive changes in her mobility and strength. I also appreciate the comprehensive reports he provides for her NDIS needs and goals.
Recently, I used their support coordination service with Jemma, who provided valuable guidance and support for my daughter's needs and future planning. People First Therapy has been a great resource for my daughter’s therapy, and I’m pleased with the care and dedication they provide.
Lila
I was concerned about Renate's ability to walk, but after working with Chris, she has gained confidence in using her walker. She feels more comfortable with it, and we’ve noticed improvements in her leg strength. Thank you, Chris.
Margaret
Contact People First Therapy
Contact us today to learn more about how our services can meet your needs. We're here to answer any questions you may have.
