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Northern Aquatics
The therapeutic pool facility in Eagle Lake is the home of Northern Aquatics. Northern Maine General constructed the facility in response to the need for aquatic therapy in the greater Fort Kent area. Northern Aquatics is the only therapeutic pool facility offering programs within a one hundred-mile radius.
Physical Therapy at Northern Aquatics
Individuals referred by physicians are candidates for Northern Aquatics’ physical therapy program. Programs consist of individualized therapy sessions designed and delivered by a licensed physical therapist after individual evaluation. The goals of the physical therapy program vary according to each patient's plan, but general goals include: relief of pain and muscle spasm; maintenance and restoration of muscle strength; promotion of proper gait and balance; the stretching of contractures; increased cardiovascular endurance and walking ability; and an improvement in functional abilities.
At Northern Aquatics, physical therapy is delivered in several forms. The modality chosen is dependent on the patient’s needs and preferences.
Land Based or In-Home Therapy
Traditional land-based therapy is delivered in a climate controlled room where patients can benefit from various therapy modalities including ultrasound and electrical stimulation techniques. Land-based exercise equipment is available to assist in therapy.
In-home therapy is provided to patients who do not have a means to travel to a physical therapy facility such as Northern Aquatics. Northern Aquatics provides in-home therapy treatment in patient’s homes from Portage to St. Agatha.
Aquatic Therapy
Water is a highly effective therapeutic environment for treating pain, injuries, and chronic conditions. The buoyancy of the water helps decrease weight on the weight bearing joints and allows for early intervention. The resistance provided from the water while moving will improve joint flexibility and the natural joint protection. The warmth provides a decrease in pain and stiffness. Aquatic therapy allows for early intervention and is beneficial when other forms of land therapy have proven unsuccessful.
Northern Aquatics' Exercise and Wellness Programs
In addition to physical therapy, Northern Aquatics offers several programs that focus on wellness through exercise. Silver Swim, a senior fitness program, is designed for participants aged 55 and older. Silver Swim is a group exercise program led by a medical professional. Silver Swim participants may be diagnosed with arthritis, fibromyalgia, chronic pain, diabetes, and cardiac disease, or they may simply want to enjoy a low-impact exercise coupled with healthy socialization with others.
Personal Exercise Program (PEP) is an individualized program designed and monitored by a personal trainer, while Independent Training Program is an exercise program performed individually without any guidance from the staff.
For more information about Northern Aquatics or its programs, please contact the Program Coordinator at (207) 444-5152 ext. 265.
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