1st Edition
Inclusive Hydrotherapy A Guide to Interventions for Individuals with Disabilities
Introduction. Part I: Foundations: Hydrotherapy and Disability Paradigms. 1. Hydrotherapy and its Physiological Foundations. 2. Shifting Paradigms in Disability Perspectives. 3. From Medical Reductionism to Inclusive and Affirmative Hydrotherapy Frameworks. Part II: Core Framework: The Four-Dimensional Model. 4. Holistic Four-Dimensional Model for Hydrotherapy. 5. Analysing Hydrotherapy Techniques Through the Lens of the Four-Dimensional Model. Part III: Practice: Case Studies and Future Directions. 6. Case Reports Using the Four-Dimensional Model. 7. Future Directions in Hydrotherapy Practice. Afterword
Biography
Michal Nissim is Head of the Special Education Department at David Yellin College of Education, where she founded and leads the Hydrotherapy and Rehabilitation Swimming Programme. She holds a PhD in Special Education, with a research focus on aquatic motor interventions across the lifespan. She completed postdoctoral fellowships in neuroscience and occupational therapy. Nissim’s work promotes inclusive, person-centred hydrotherapy practices that foster autonomy, participation, and well-being in diverse therapeutic and educational contexts.
“It is a great pleasure to endorse this important book by Dr. Michal Nissim. Her rich theoretical knowledge and clinical experience offer readers deep insights into hydrotherapy within disability paradigms. The holistic model presented is timely and essential, offering a comprehensive framework for diverse therapeutic practices.”
Professor Navah Ratzon, Tel Aviv University, Israel“This book is a unique contribution to the field of hydrotherapy and aquatic exercise, uniting lived experience with theoretical depth. Through an innovative four-dimensional model, it promotes holistic well-being and critical reflection. By integrating practical knowledge with academic rigour, it empowers professionals to enhance their therapeutic work and deepen inclusion.”
Professor Yeshayahu (Shayke) Hutzler, Professor of Adapted Physical Activity and Rehabilitation, Head of the Centre for Innovation and Entrepreneurship, Levinsky-Wingate Academic Center; Former President of IFAPA (International Federation of Adapted Physical Activity), Israel
