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Department of Kinesiology, CSUN

Center of Achievement and Abbot and Linda Brown Center for Adpative Aquatic Therapy

Welcome to the Center of Achievement for the Physically Disabled in the Department of Kinesiology at California State University, Northridge. The CoA and the Abbott and Linda Brown Western Center for Adaptive Aquatic Therapy serve the community through therapeutic excercise programs. The Centers bring hope and restoration to people with chronic physical disabilities in a caring, motivating environment.

At the Center of Achievement we have been dedicated to lifetime physical wellness and promotion of the highest possible level of functional independence for clients. Whether the disability stems from illness or injury, our programs have helped clients through land-based, extended-care therapeutic exercise programs for the physically disabled since 1971.

The Brown Center, a natural extension of the Center of Achievement, became operational in spring, 2003, adapting land-based programs to the aquatic environment. This 19,000 square foot indoor aquatic facility - with four treatment-specific pools - is the only comprehensive facility of its kind in the western United States. Adaptive aquatic therapy allows greater freedom of movement that improves fitness, range of motion, cardiovascular and muscular strength, and quality of life.

The Center of Achievement is also a renowned teaching facility for university students and a model for similar programs worldwide.

The Brown Center features four indoor treatment-specific pools:

The Movable Floor Pool
Movable Floor Pool Picture

 

The floor of this pool can be raised to deck level and lowered to as deep as seven feet - or set at any level in between. The adjustable floor allows us to work more effectively with wheelchair clients, young children and infants.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


The Whirlpool Spa
Whirlpool Picture

 

The water jets are placed for joint relief to enhance muscle relaxation and pain reduction. The whirlpool spa can be used to reduce spasticity for warm up before an exercise session or relaxation afterward.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


The Main Pool
Main Pool Picture

 

Kept at a comfortable 92°, the main pool has two underwater treadmills for stroke rehabilitation, arthritis relief and muscular recovery. It also features a hydro-lift and a long entrance ramp with handrails to allow those working on their gait a progressive reduction of gravity.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


The Cool Pool
Cool Pool Picture

 

Customized for those with neurological disorders such as multiple sclerosis, this pool allows those who are sensitive to heat to participate in a fitness regimen. The pool features water current control for resistance exercises.

Courses

Courses are available to CSUN students who want to work with the disabled, as well as students and community members with orthopedic or neurological conditions.

There is a waiting list for some courses. (Contact information appears below).

Aquatic Course Descriptions

Arthritis Foundation Aquatic:

Arthritis Foundation Aquatic Program - includes strength, mild cardiovascular, and range of motion exercises taught by certified Arthritis Foundation instructors.

Aquatic Therapeutic Exercise for Adults:

Individualized aquatic exercise programs according to each person's needs. This class is designed for individuals with mild to moderate orthopedic conditions such as neck, back and knee injuries as well as persons with severe conditions. Choose from class time listed under Kinesiology 117.

Aquatic Therapeutic Exercise for Child:

Individualized aquatic exercise programs according to each person's need.

Exercise Classes for Weight Management:

Low intensity exercise program that includes strengthening, cardiovascular and flexibility exercises. Instructor led.

Deep Water Exercises:

For individuals interested in a buoyant environment to gain strength, cardiovascular fitness and flexibility. Instructor led.

Aquatlic Exercise for Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis:

Resistance activities, cardiovascular training, and range of motion exercises taught in a cool water pool by instructors with specialized training from the National Multiple Sclerosis Society.

Land Based Course Descriptions

Land Based Therapeutic Exercise:

Individualized exercise program utilizing special land based equipment to enhance cardiovascular, balance, strength, flexibility and functionality. Many class times are available. Register for Kinesiology 115A.

Individual Program Desig, Adapted Physicial Education and Laboratory:

Introduction to exercise program design and equipment utilized in fitness training and functional skill development for individuals with physical disabilities. A hands-on laboratory assignment in the Adapted Physical Exercise Program. Students work with physically disabled individuals under faculty supervision. Register for Kinesiology 311 & Lab.

Individualized Adaptive and Therapeuitc Exercise:

Introduction to exercise program design and equipment utilized in an aquatic environment to develop the functional skills of individuals with disabilities. Prerequisite is Kinesiology 311. Register for Kinesiology 396.

Contact Information

Directors, Coordinators, & Department Chair:

Mailing Address & Phone Numbers:

The Center of Achievement for the Physically Disabled
California State University, Northridge
18111 Nordhoff Street
Northridge, CA 91330-8287
(818) 677-2182

 

Department of Kinesiology, Redwood Hall, 18111 Nordhoff St, Northridge CA 91330-8287 / Phone: 818-677-3205 / Fax: 818-677-3207

© 2006 CSU Northridge