War Memorial Hospital
125 Birrell St Waverley NSW 2024
Please call on
0434 109 548

Do I need a Doctors referral to come to Hydrotherapy?

No, you do not need a referral from a doctor to attend Hydrotherapy as a private patient. If you have a CTP or Workers Compensation claim you will need a referral from your nominated treating doctor. If you have a gold card from Department of Veteran Affairs you will need a doctor’s referral.


Will I get a rebate from my private Health Fund?

Your private health fund may provide a rebate for part of your consultation fee if you are covered for Physiotherapy. Bring you private health fund card and we can make a direct claim on the spot for you.


How do I make an appointment?

Please phone us on 0434 109 548.


When can I make an appointment for Hydrotherapy?

Monday: 7:30am to 12:00pm

Tuesday: 1:00pm to 5:00pm

Wednesday: 7:30am to 12:00pm

Thursday: 1:00pm to 5:00pm

Friday: 7:30am to 12:00pm

Hours may vary due to COVID restrictions. 


How long does a session or appointment take?

Following an Initial Assessment, each Hydrotherapy session generally lasts between 30-40 minutes.


What do I need to bring to Aquatic / Hydrotherapy?

You will need to bring a swimming costume and a towel. If you don’t want to get your hair wet, then you can bring a shower cap or swimming cap. There is a water dispenser at the pool, however if you like you can bring a water bottle.


What if I can’t swim?

Hydrotherapy doesn't involve swimming. The pool has both a shallow and deeper end, ranging in depth from 1.2m to 1.4m. If you are unable to swim you will stay in the shallow end where you can stand comfortably. There are also hand railings along the inside of the pool, allowing for extra stability and assurance. There is also a set of stairs leading in and out of the pool with handrails.


Will I be sore after the session?

Most clients say they are tired more than sore after the session due to moving your body and joints in the water. This is normal however it is our aim to minimise soreness in the pool and after. The Physiotherapist will design your program to start slowly to judge your response to the treatment, then progress your program when they see you are ready.


What if I wear glasses or contact lenses?

That is fine, you can keep your glasses on or your contact lenses in, as your head will not be going below the water.


How often should I do Aquatic / Hydrotherapy?

The Physiotherapist will advise you on this as every case is different however generally speaking you should leave a rest day between each session, so you can complete a hydrotherapy session every second day. The more often you complete the sessions the faster your recovery time and return to pre-injury activities.


Can I do both Aquatic / Hydrotherapy and land-based Physiotherapy?

Yes. Depending on your injury or condition the Physiotherapist will work out a program that will best suit your rehabilitation goals. We do not offer land based Physiotherapy at The War Memorial Hospital. You will need to make your own arrangements.

Ask us a Question

Feel free to ask any physical therapy related questions over the phone, or get send your question via this form below. Your message will be dispatched directly to our staff who will answer as soon as they can.