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Real members of MyMSTeam have posted questions and answers that support our community guidelines, and should not be taken as medical advice. Looking for the latest medically reviewed content by doctors and experts? Visit our resource section.

Aqua therapy

A MyMSTeam Member asked a question 💭
Tonawanda, NY

I have posted about aqua therapy before and while I think it would be good for me, I worry about the pool itself. My dear sister-in-law (she has lupus) ended up with a severe infection that took two weeks of antibiotics, a round of steroids including cream then finally a shot of steroids. I don't want to end up worse than I am! Thoughts/opinions?

July 21
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MyMSTeam

What a valid concern — nobody wants to trade one problem for another! The worry about pool hygiene is completely understandable, especially after witnessing what your sister-in-law went through.

Here are some practical steps to help reduce infection risk when considering aqua therapy:

- Choose a reputable facility — Show Full Answer

What a valid concern — nobody wants to trade one problem for another! The worry about pool hygiene is completely understandable, especially after witnessing what your sister-in-law went through.

Here are some practical steps to help reduce infection risk when considering aqua therapy:

- Choose a reputable facility — therapy pools at hospitals, rehabilitation centers, or YMCAs tend to have stricter water quality standards than public pools
- Ask about water testing — facilities should test chlorine and pH levels daily; don't be shy about asking!
- Shower immediately after — rinsing off right away helps remove any bacteria or irritants
- Avoid the pool if you have any open cuts or skin irritations
- Check your own immune status — some MS medications can affect your immune system, so it's worth discussing pool safety with your neurologist first The benefits of aquatic therapy for MS are well-documented — it's actually ranked as one of the most effective exercises for reducing MS-related fatigue. It can also help with balance, flexibility, muscle strength, and overheating.

A MyMSTeam member shared, *"I started going to aqua fit. It helps with overheating."*

A medically supervised aquatic therapy program may offer the cleanest, safest pool environment while also giving you professional guidance tailored to your MS symptoms. That could be the sweet spot you're looking for!

July 21
A MyMSTeam Member

M I think aqua therapy will help endurance, balance. Don't do it alone.

July 21
A MyMSTeam Member

That is rare but most pools are inspected. I have done pool exercise for 35 years and no issues.

July 21

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