Icebat USA 2018

The prevalence of aquatic therapy in the United States has ebbed and flowed over the centuries.  There was resurgence in its use, with front-line research verifying its benefits, during the space race of the 1960s.  Since the development of the evidence-based practice model in the 1990s, there has been an emphasis on the further research and implementation of aquatic therapy in rehabilitative medicine.

In recent years, aquatic therapy has grown immensely, with many therapists being trained both in the United States and abroad.  We want to help your practice by sharing some of the most highly-esteemed peer-reviewed research in the world, and we invite you to add your expertise and research to this global exchange of aquatic knowledge.  This motivation originated our theme for the conference: “Wading Deeper into Research and Implementation.”  With this theme, we’ll focus on the intensity and dosage of aquatic interventions. Literature is clear: (intensive) physical activity is elementary for health. For those that are restricted in the physical activity on land still have the aquatic environment to maximize their potential.  However, aquatic literature often reports too low intensities and under dosage.  Therefore we will concentrate on the possibilities that aquatic therapy and exercise offer.

Water is referred to as “The Great Equalizer,” and it is about time for its benefits to be proclaimed from the mountain top!  Facilitating the growth of aquatic therapy and sustaining it in a systematic and scientific manner, with experienced clinical reasoning and methodology, documentation, and research – all while constantly looking ahead to evolving professional methods – will be imperative to building upon the momentum of the aquatic therapy movement.

With participants and invited keynote speakers coming from across the world, this conference will provide a great networking opportunity to interact, and to grow this aquatic movement together with passion and experience. In-depth discussions will bring new ideas into clearer focus, you will learn new techniques, discover unique ways to critically approach issues in your practice, and share experiences and fellowship with aquatic therapists from across the globe.

The conference is being held in Las Vegas, Nevada in the United States.  “Vegas” is an internationally recognized iconic tourist destination and for good reason: decadence is everywhere.  From world class dining and shopping to dazzling lights and fabulous entertainment, the 4.2 mile long Las Vegas strip truly never sleeps. Come and explore this glittering global hotspot.

We extend a warm welcome to visit Las Vegas and be a part of a true exchange of knowledge, experience and success.  We are looking forward to a wonderful time growing with you all!!