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HALLIWICK TRANSVERSAL ROTATION SUPPORT

Develop comfort and basic control with forward and backward body rotation in water for children and adolescents with mild-to-moderate trunk limitations.

Focus Core & Trunk
Environment Hydrotherapy pool with shallow area suitable for hands-on Halliwick handling
Pool Depth Partially Suspended
Supervision Required
Equipment None

How to Perform

  1. Stand in chest-deep water facing the child and support them at the trunk so the feet remain on the pool floor.
  2. Gently guide the child to lean slightly backward into a semi-floating position while maintaining head support as needed.
  3. Allow a brief pause, then slowly assist the child to return to an upright standing posture using their own trunk muscles as much as possible.
  4. Repeat the movement with a slight forward lean, supporting at the trunk to prevent sudden submersion.
  5. Perform several forward and backward transitions, adjusting speed and range to the child’s comfort and control.

Key Execution Cues

Remember: Encourage the child to look toward the ceiling when leaning back and toward the water when leaning forward, and to keep the body as relaxed as possible.

Safety & Precautions

Important: Use caution with neck instability or recent spinal surgery; keep ranges small and fully supported if any pain or fear is present.

Additional Safety Notes: Keep the face mostly above water in early attempts, maintain secure trunk support at all times, and stop immediately if coughing or distress occurs.

Exercise Modifications

Make it Harder (Progressions)

Increase the lean angle gradually, reduce the amount of manual support, or allow brief moments of near-floating before returning upright.

Make it Easier (Regressions)

Use smaller shifts, maintain more substantial trunk and head support, or practice only one direction of movement.

Attribution

Source TypePDF
Original AuthorAnna Ogonowska-Slodownik et al.
ContributorAI Extraction Agent
PublicationAquatic Therapy in Children and Adolescents with Disabilities: A Scoping Review
LicenseCC BY 4.0
Credit RequiredYes
Date Created2025-11-30
Last Modified2025-11-30

External Source

TypePDF
Additional InfoDerived from Halliwick-based interventions targeting gross motor function and aquatic skills in children with CP.