In 1990, the Society for the Protection of Spastics initiated one of the first therapeutic swimming programs in Greece.
Since 2008, the Society has been offering therapeutic swimming programs for individuals with cerebral palsy at their “Open Door” Center, equipped with an internal practice swimming pool. They have been supported in this effort by three instructors specialized in the Halliwick method, as well as a lifeguard assistant.
Photo credits: The three instructors specialized in the Halliwick method, in action.
Therapeutic swimming provides a combination of motion therapy, physiotherapy, sensory integration, and recreation. In the water, the muscular system is activated with great intensity, helping individuals with spasticity perform movements that would be difficult outside of the water. Additionally, the therapeutic effect of water provides sensory-motor experiences, offering movement to individuals who are unable to walk.
We also know that individuals with disabilities respond better to alternative activities outside the confines of the therapy center. Therapeutic swimming helps children and adults:
- Improve their reflexes
- Better control their movements, balance, and orientation
- Improve their respiratory function
- Adopt more natural postures and movements
- Relax, improving control of involuntary movements
Photo credits: The Therapeutic Swimming Program restarted in 2008
The team of the Therapeutic Swimming Program includes the Pool Operations Manager, Pool Program Coordinator, instructors-therapists, lifeguard, and assistants. The program serves over 35 children and 35 adults with cerebral palsy annually.
The Demetrius & Blanche Lambropoulos Foundation, through their 2015 donation, partially funded the program’s operation.
