Passive Hydrotherapy WATSU® for Rehabilitation of an Accident Survivor: A Prospective Case Report

Abstract

Background: WaterShiatsu (WATSU) is a passive form of hydrotherapy in warm water (35 °C) that aims at relaxation, pain relief, and a sense of security. This case report focuses on a patient's experience of integrating WATSU into her rehabilitative care. Case Report: A 52-year-old woman survived a severe motorcycle accident in which she sustained several fractures on the right side of her body, including ribs, the pelvis, and the femur. After discharge from stationary care, she independently scheduled 8 weekly WATSU sessions with an experienced WATSU therapist also trained in physiotherapy and psychosomatics. Quantitative and qualitative data obtained from the patient's diary and the therapist's notes is presented. Results: The patient associated WATSU with physical and emotional release, reconciliation with her body, and trunk mobilization (followed by ameliorated breath). She ascribed WATSU lasting effects on her body image and reported continuous improvement by the Patient-Specific Functional Scale. The therapist employed WATSU to equalize awareness throughout the body and for careful mobilization. Due to complications (elevated inflammation markers), only 6 of 8 scheduled sessions were administered. Conclusions: WATSU was experienced as helpful in approaching a condition that the patient felt insufficiently covered by conventional physiotherapy alone. In early rehabilitation, additional medical/physiotherapeutic skills of contributing complementary therapists are advocated.