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Aquatic Therapy

Gentle Therapy, Powerful Results

Aquatic Physical Therapy is Perhaps the Most Innovative Solution in Pain Relief.

Experience gentle, effective rehabilitation in our Lititz, Mount Joy, Lancaster-East, and Lancaster-West pools. Aquatic therapy is a low-impact alternative to traditional PT, perfect for all ages and fitness levels. With appointments available within 24–48 hours, getting started has never been easier.

The specialized aquatic therapists at HARTZ PT provide 1-on-1 attention and tailor appointments to meet your unique symptoms. The buoyancy created by the water allows for decreased stress on joints and helps you perform exercises and range of motion activities that may be difficult to complete on land. The versatility of water provides increased interest and ease of movement, which can result in a more positive response to rehabilitation exercises.

Who It Helps

From stroke recovery to sports injuries, arthritis, joint pain, balance issues, and more—our aquatic therapy supports a wide range of conditions.

Why Water Works

  • Reduces stress on joints
  • Improves mobility, strength, and balance
  • Enhances circulation and flexibility
  • Promotes relaxation and pain relief

One-on-One Personalized Care

Your aquatic rehabilitation program will always be overseen and progressed by your therapist and each aquatic therapy appointment is tailored to meet the patients’ unique symptom presentation allowing for optimal progression.  One patient is scheduled in the pool area at a time and monitored throughout their entire visit.  With a maintained water temperature of 90-92 degrees and private changing areas with showers and towels provided, patients will be comfortable throughout their visit.

At HARTZ aquatics you will get one-on-one attention with exercises tailored to your need using water’s natural resistance and buoyancy, you can safely perform movements that may be challenging on land—helping you recover faster and move better.

Real Stories. Real Results.

We could tell you what aquatic therapy does. But Joan says it better — and she says it right from the water.

After surviving a broken neck, broken shoulder, and broken pelvis, Joan was told there were things she’d simply never do again. Today, she’s doing all of them. In this video, she shares her story alongside HARTZ Aquatics Director Wendy — the person she credits with helping her get there.

Common Conditions Treated:

  • Stroke
  • Arthritis
  • Joint Pain
  • Lymphedema
  • Sports Injuries
  • Lower Back Pain
  • Sprains & Strains
  • Balance Disorders
  • Orthopedic Injuries
  • Neurological Disorders
  • Post-operative Recovery
  • Fibromyalgia & Chronic Pain
  • Cervical Spine & Posture Problems

Benefits of Aquatic Therapy

  • Reduces stress on joints
  • Increases flexibility
  • Improves gait and mobility
  • Builds muscle strength
  • Enhances balance and coordination
  • Improves circulation and ease of movement
  • Promotes relaxation
  • Increases endurance
  • Reduces swelling and manages pain

Treatment Options

  • Upper & lower extremity strengthening with hand paddles and aquatic weights.
  • Functional movement exercises using steps to improve walking or climbing.
  • Water current resistance therapy allows a quicker return to full weight bearing sport
    activities verses land rehabilitation.
  • Use of water current and various standing positions to improve balance and stability.
  • Non-weight bearing deep water exercises including traction and stretching.
  • Refine swimmer stroke technique to prevent future injury and improve performance.
  • Ai Chi

Ai Chi: Calm, Gentle, Effective Aquatic Therapy

Ai Chi is a calming, full-body practice performed in warm water that combines slow, flowing movements with deep breathing. Ai Chi helps improve balance, flexibility, and relaxation—making it ideal for patients at any stage of recovery or wellness.

Whether you’re easing into aquatic therapy for the first time, managing chronic pain, or limited in mobility, Ai Chi movements are simple, adaptable, and performed standing in shoulder-depth water.

With its peaceful pace and supportive environment, Ai Chi empowers patients to reduce stress, decrease pain and build strength gently and safely.

Benefits of Ai Chi include:

  • Improved balance, posture, and core strength
  • Reduced stress and muscle tension
  • Enhanced range of motion and flexibility
  • Gentle, supportive environment for all ages and fitness levels

At HARTZ PT, our Ai Chi sessions are tailored to each individual’s needs, ensuring a safe and effective experience. The buoyancy and resistance of water reduce strain on joints while providing gentle support, making it easier to perform movements that might be challenging on land.

Whether you’re recovering from surgery, managing arthritis, or simply looking for a mindful, therapeutic exercise, Ai Chi can help you move with greater ease and confidence.  LEARN MORE.

Make a splash every week with Wet & Wild Wednesday's in the Water With Wendy on Youtube!

Our Aquatic Director, Wendy Enck, PTA, brings 24 years of building our aquatics program and a passion for patient care to every session. She provides individualized aquatic therapy at both our Lancaster-East and Lancaster-West pools, helping patients move more comfortably and confidently in the water. Wendy also oversees and supports our team of aquatic therapists across other locations, maintaining the high standards of care HARTZ PT is known for.  You may reach Wendy at wenck@hartzpt.com.

Safe. Supportive. Effective. Fun.

This video, narrated by our Aquatic Director, Wendy Enck, PTA, gives you a tour of the aquatic facilities at HARTZ PT

Warm Therapy Pools

Lititz Location

Mount Joy Location

Lancaster East Location

Lancaster West and MAG Location

Frequently Asked Questions

Water makes movement easier — here’s what to know before you dive in.

What is aquatic therapy?

Aquatic therapy is physical or occupational therapy performed in a warm-water pool, using the natural properties of water — buoyancy, resistance, and warmth — to support your recovery. The water reduces stress on your joints and muscles, making it possible to move, stretch, and strengthen with far less pain than you might experience on land.

How does water therapy help me?

Water therapy makes movement easier and safer by supporting your body and reducing stress on your joints and muscles. It helps improve strength, flexibility, balance, and overall comfort — all while giving you a gentle, fun way to get moving and feel better.

How is aquatic therapy different from regular pool exercise or swimming?

Aquatic therapy is a skilled, one-on-one treatment guided by a licensed physical or occupational therapist, with exercises specifically chosen to address your diagnosis, strength, balance, and mobility goals. It’s not a fitness class or recreational swim — every movement is purposeful and tailored to your recovery plan.

Can I do aquatic therapy if I have pain or an injury?

Yes! Aquatic therapy is designed to help people with pain or injuries. The warm water supports your body, eases stress on your joints, and lets you move more comfortably — plus, it’s a fun way to get your body moving while your therapist guides you safely through exercises.

Do I need to know how to swim?

Not at all! Our aquatic therapy sessions take place in a shallow, safe, and supervised pool. You’ll always have support from your therapist, and the focus is on gentle, guided movement to help you improve strength, mobility, and overall comfort — no swimming skills required.

Are the pools heated?

Absolutely! Our four pools are nice and warm, so you can move comfortably, relax, and enjoy your therapy without the chill.

Do I have to get my hair wet?

No. Most aquatic therapy exercises are performed in shoulder-deep water, so your hair typically stays dry. However, some movements or exercises may cause light splashing. If you prefer to keep your hair completely dry, just let your therapist know — they’ll adjust your program accordingly. You’re also welcome to wear a swim cap if that makes you more comfortable.

How long are the sessions?

Each aquatic therapy session lasts about one hour and is held in a private pool setting. You’ll work one-on-one with your licensed therapist, who will guide you through personalized exercises designed to help you move comfortably and confidently in the water.

What do I need to bring to my aquatic therapy session?

Please bring a swimsuit for your session. If you don’t have one, shorts and a dark-colored (non-white) T-shirt will work just fine. Water shoes are recommended if you have them, along with a towel for after your session. If you need assistance changing clothes, please bring someone with you to help.

Do you have areas to change?

Yes! We have private changing rooms so you can feel comfortable and relaxed before and after your aquatic therapy sessions.

How long can I come to aquatic therapy?

The length of your aquatic therapy program depends on your injury, condition, treatment goals, and insurance coverage. Some patients benefit from just a few sessions, while others may continue for several weeks or months. Your therapist will regularly review your progress and work with you to create a plan that’s effective and aligns with your insurance benefits.

Do I need a script from my doctor?

For Medicare patients, a doctor’s referral is required for aquatic therapy. For most commercial insurance plans, a referral is not needed, though having one can still help your therapist understand your medical history and create a safe, personalized treatment plan.

Does insurance cover aquatic therapy?

Yes — in most cases, insurance does cover aquatic therapy when it’s prescribed by a physician and provided by a licensed physical therapist. Coverage amounts and visit limits can vary depending on your specific insurance plan and medical diagnosis. Our administrative team is happy to verify your aquatic therapy benefits and explain what’s included in your coverage before you begin treatment. We want you to feel comfortable and informed every step of the way.

Does aquatic therapy cost the same as traditional therapy?

Yes — in most cases, aquatic therapy is billed the same way as traditional physical therapy and is covered under your physical therapy benefits. Your copay or coinsurance is usually the same for both types of sessions. Because coverage can vary depending on your insurance plan, our administrative team is happy to review your benefits and explain any differences before your first appointment.

If you have any questions about aquatic therapy please call:

Lititz  |  717.625.2228

Mount Joy  |  717.492.8708

Lancaster-East  |  717.396.7766

Lancaster-West  | 717.735.8880

Click here for more information and a tour of our aquatic facilities.