What web-based information is available for people with Parkinson’s disease interested in aquatic physiotherapy? A social listening study

BACKGROUND: Aquatic physiotherapy is becoming a more frequently utilised treatment for people with Parkinson’s Disease (PD). Consumers are increasingly accessing information regarding health choices online, and it is not known what type or quality of information regarding aquatic physiotherapy is available. METHODS: Web-based platforms (Facebook™, Twitter™, YouTube™, Instagram™, blogs and the web) were searched using the Awario© social listening software. Webpages had to be in English, mention PD, aquatic physiotherapy and its effects. Quality of webpages was assessed using a modified DISCERN tool and content analysis summarised reported effects. RESULTS: Awario© identified 2992 entries, with 133 assessed using the modified DISCERN tool. A small number (n = 31, 24%) described the effects of aquatic physiotherapy for people with PD. Quality of webpages was low, with many lacking information regarding clear sources of information, contraindications to aquatic physiotherapy and descriptions of the therapeutic environment. Content analysis showed several themes; general physical, PD-specific and psychosocial effects. More than a third of webpages indicated that aquatic physiotherapy would improve strength, balance, pain and aid relaxation. A large number (n = 96, 72%) described at least one hydrodynamic or hydrostatic property of water, most commonly buoyancy (n-83, 62%). CONCLUSIONS: Overall quality of information was poor, and it is recommended that webpages list all potential contraindications to aquatic physiotherapy and direct consumers to discuss potential participation with their healthcare professionals. Webpages also should include information regarding the therapeutic environment, disclose sources of information and focus on enablers to exercise to improve engagement of people with PD in aquatic physiotherapy. SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION: The online version contains supplementary material available at 10.1186/s12883-022-02669-3.