UNDERWATER bikes are being used to help patients get better.
East Sussex Healthcare NHS Trust is one of the first NHS aquatic physiotherapy (hydrotherapy) facilities in the South East to offer this.
It is part of the treatment thanks to a £5,000 donation from the Friends of Eastbourne Hospital.
The money has paid for two underwater static bikes, an underwater trampoline and sets of upper limb resistance equipment for the pool.
Anna Carter, clinical lead aquatic physiotherapist, said: “The bikes and new equipment have already been used with great effect for patients rehabilitating from various injuries and conditions.
“There are so many benefits to this type of treatment.
“The warm water helps to reduce pain and the resistance of the water and support of buoyancy means patients can strengthen their muscles with less weight-bearing through the joints.
“The pressure of the water also helps to reduce swelling.”
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