Hydrotherapy on the way

Kerikeri’s Little Dippers Swim School will begin offering hydrotherapy sessions on May 2.

The sessions give those with physical, intellectual and developmental disabilities access to the indoor pool via a water wheel chair, hoist and ramp, along with trained therapy instructors working in conjunction with allied health professionals. The pool will be heated to a therapeutic temperature.

Little Dippers owner Karla McCaughan said hydrotherapy was one of the key treatments and rehabilitative options for people with disabilities, and had proven to increase mobility, reduce pain and blood pressure.

“We are super excited to be able to provide these services to our community, and they will be a huge help to those who would have had to travel elsewhere for these services previously,” she said.

Ms McCaughan thanked Kerikeri, Kaikohe, Waipapa and Bay of Islands Rotary clubs, and the Bay of Islands-Whangaroa Community Board, for support.