Still warm water in an indoor pool, the setting where aquatic therapy takes place
Warm-water course · Ponte Tresa and Mendrisio

Warm-water exercise that helps relieve back pain

Ondarte’s Acquantalgica — often searched for as aquatic therapy — is an active group workout in warm water, for those suffering from back pain and joint pain. The warmth relaxes the muscles, buoyancy reduces the load: you move without pain.

✚ Recognised by several health insurers ◈ Warm water ◐ Small groups

Who it’s for

Back pain, neck pain, stiffness and joint pain

Where

Ponte Tresa and Mendrisio

How it works

Group course in warm water, small groups

Prescription

Not required: it’s a wellness course

Acquantalgica is an active group workout carried out in warm water, designed for those suffering from back pain, joint pain or muscle stiffness. The warmth of the water helps relax the muscles, while its buoyancy reduces the load on the joints, making many movements easier and more comfortable.

Through mobility, stretching and postural control exercises, the course helps improve flexibility, maintain joint function and relieve discomfort linked to age or musculoskeletal issues.

Still warm water in an indoor pool, close-up view
The principle

Warmth relaxes, water supports

At 32-33 degrees the muscles loosen and buoyancy takes weight off the spine: you can perform movements that would be tiring or painful on land.
Benefits

Less pain, more movement

Relieves back pain, neck pain and muscle tension
Reduces the load on the spine and joints thanks to buoyancy
The warmth of the water relaxes the muscles and improves circulation
Helps maintain and recover mobility
Allows movements that would be painful on land
Small groups: the instructor adapts the exercises to each person

General information for informational purposes only: it does not replace medical advice. In case of specific conditions or after surgery, ask your doctor before starting.

Recognition by health insurers

Ondarte is recognised by several health insurers. Reimbursement conditions are set by each individual health insurer: we recommend checking them with your own insurance.

The Ondarte courses recognised for reimbursement purposes are Acquababy, Aquafit®/Acquagym, Acquantalgica and Swimming.

Rippled surface of warm water in an indoor pool
How we work

Small groups, everyone’s own pace

The instructor adapts the exercise to each person’s abilities. There’s no performance target: the work focuses on the mobility you need for everyday life.

Before you sign up, let’s talk.

Water at 32-33 degrees isn’t right for everyone in the same way: it depends on what hurts and for how long. Describe your situation and we’ll tell you whether the course is right for you — and if it isn’t, we’ll tell you that too.

Frequently asked questions

What is Acquantalgica?

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Acquantalgica — the course many people search for as “aquatic therapy” — is an active group workout that takes place in warm water and is designed for those suffering from back pain and joint pain. The warmth relaxes the muscles while buoyancy eases the load on the spine and joints: you can perform movements that would be tiring or painful on land. It’s a wellness course, not an individual therapy.

Why is it easier to move in warm water?

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In water the body is supported by buoyancy and weighs much less: the pressure on the back, hips and knees is noticeably reduced. The warmth, in turn, relaxes the muscles, improves circulation and raises the threshold of tolerance to movement. The result is that you move more freely and for longer, without overloading the joints.

Who is Acquantalgica suitable for?

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It’s suitable for anyone living with back pain, neck pain, stiffness or joint pain, for those with a sedentary life or a physically demanding job, and for anyone who wants to start moving gently again. Groups are small and the instructor adapts the exercises to each person’s abilities. In case of specific conditions or after surgery, ask your doctor first.

Do I need a medical prescription to sign up?

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No. Ondarte’s Acquantalgica is a wellness and movement group course: you don’t need any prescription or medical certificate to sign up. Just choose your location and contact us. If you’re undergoing treatment for a specific issue, it’s still a good idea to talk to your doctor before starting.

Where and when does Acquantalgica take place?

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Acquantalgica takes place at Ponte Tresa (Monday at midday) and Mendrisio (Wednesday morning). It is not available at the other Ondarte locations. Exact days and times are in the 2026-27 course schedule published on each location page and may change.

Is Acquantalgica recognised by health insurers?

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Ondarte is recognised by several health insurers. Reimbursement conditions are set by each individual health insurer: we recommend checking them with your own insurance. Acquantalgica is one of the Ondarte courses recognised for reimbursement, along with Acquababy, Aquafit®/Acquagym and Swimming.
Contact us

Request information about Acquantalgica

Tell us what you need and which location you prefer: we’ll let you know the days, times and how to sign up.

For your privacy, please do not enter detailed health information here: we will get back to you to discuss it.

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