OP0292-PARE The creation of the ‘aqua re-action’.a methodologically based aquatic physical intervention/rehabilitation program for people with rmd’s
Authors: A. Iacovou
Journal: Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases (2018)

<h3>Background</h3> As an Aquatic Instructor and an OA patient my self, I faced with other RMD patients the demand for an aquatic physical conditioning program that can meet our needs. After contacting with Patient Leagues and Aquatic Fitness Training Organisations, I found out that there was no such a specific program and it was essential to create one. <h3>Objectives</h3> My first objective was to get trained and create an aquatic program that could improve the quality of life through improving the ROM, muscular strenth, flexibility, balance and aerobic capacity. My next objective was to accomodate people with variables like having or not fear of water, with minimum or increased joint mobility, with different affected joints and connective tissues. Hence to that I had to approach and convince Rheumatologists, Orthopaedics, Physiotherapists and patients for the benefits of this specific Aquatic program and have it as an option to their rehabilitation. Moreover, I had to use water as my basic instrument and use it' s principles (Laws of physics) to estimate the programs intensity. Finally I decided to offer that knowledge through an Instructor course. <h3>Methods</h3> In order to get trained, I followed specific training in Aquatic fitness and Rehabilitation by International Aquatic Organisations like the Aquatic Exercise Association, International Aquatic Therapy Faculty and BECO Academy and spending hours in the pool testing exercises and designing the program. Methodogically, I implemented the Principles of Aquatic Environment like buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, inertia, and biomechanics like, hydrodynamics, movement speed, levers, to estimate the exercise in low to medium intensity and I emphasised on the the quality and the execution of the movement. The program was focused on no pain moves in the biggest possible ROM, using all joints and muscle groups, working on muscle flexibility strength and aerobic capacity. I created a shallow and a deep water program in order to classify participants based on certain criteria. I contacted meetings with Physicians, and the Cyprus League Against Rheumatism. Published article about Aquatic workout benefits to RMD's at the Cyprus League Against Rheumatism (Cyplar) Journal, I gave lectures and special offer to Cyplar members. The creation of the Instructors course, needed to start from registering a name, logo and manual.It was also essential to built a business structure to obtain financial and human resources. <h3>Results</h3> Based on the participants testimonies there was an improvement on quality of life, their joints range of motion, muscle strength, flexibility and aerobic capacity. Hence to that they mention less pain, move quality night sleep and generally better social life with out depression. All the above was mentioned also from their Physicians and therapists that lead to increasing their trust towards the program benefits. Hence to that our collaboration with CYPLAR continued by organising a joined annual Swimming charity event. AQUA Re-Action is the registered name of the program, and Logo and Manual are in an ongoing process of final registrations. <h3>Conclusions</h3> Having an active lifestyle through an aquatic physical conditioning program, which is under the guidance of a specialised Aquatic Instructor, for at least 3 times per week, can lead to a significant improvement on patients Quality of life within few weeks. <h3>Disclosure of Interest</h3> None declared