(Image: Supplied)
A County Durham stroke survivor who was once told she might never walk again has praised the benefits of hydrotherapy after making significant progress in her recovery and regaining some of her independence.
Carol, who suffered a stroke in March and spent 10 weeks in hospital, was left unable to speak or move and given just a 75 per cent chance of survival.
With determination and support, she gradually regained some mobility and now uses a walking stick for short walks around her garden and neighbourhood.
Encouraged by her friend Kathleen, who attends sessions at the Pioneering Care Centre (PCC) in Newton Aycliffe, Carol decided to try hydrotherapy as part of her rehabilitation.
She said: "Through doing exercises in the hydrotherapy pool, I've gained greater movement and flexibility.
"I can now fasten the Velcro on my shoes after a session, something that had previously been incredibly difficult.
"The warm water, relaxing jets, and welcoming environment have also helped reduce anxiety and given me something positive to look forward to each week."
After just three weeks of hydrotherapy, Carol noticed improved mobility and flexibility in her arm, which had become tight following her stroke.
Kathleen, who supports Carol during sessions, has seen the improvement first-hand.
She said: "Week by week, Carol's range of movement has improved, allowing her arm to sit in a more natural position and move more freely.
"The pool provides a fantastic, supportive environment for rehabilitation."
Kathleen also benefits from hydrotherapy herself, using the pool to help manage rheumatoid arthritis and mental health challenges.
Graham Barker, centre enterprise development manager at the PCC, highlighted the centre's inclusive approach.
He said: "Hydrotherapy at the PCC offers a variety of hydrotherapy sessions to meet the needs of people of all ages and abilities.
"We have open sessions for those wanting to reap the benefits of hydrotherapy, self-led sessions that are designed for those wanting to carry on a specific recovery programme they have.
"We also have a session for families with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities children (SEND).
"The temperature of the warm water is specifically at 32 degrees to help improve mobility, support rehabilitation, reduce pain and promote overall wellbeing.
"The pool area also has fully accessible facilities to ensure that as many people as possible can experience these benefits in a safe and supportive environment.
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"We invite anyone who may be interested to come along and see if they can benefit like Carol and Kathleen have."
The hydrotherapy pool is part of the PCC’s wider commitment to community health and wellbeing, offering therapies and services designed to help people live more independently.
Sessions can be booked online at www.pcp.uk.net/booking, by calling 01325 321234, or in person at the Pioneering Care Centre.