Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy is the use of water for health purposes; also, it is called as water therapy, hydrotherapy, treatments as saunas, steam baths, foot baths, contrast therapy, hot and cold showers, among others. In many European countries, hydrotherapy takes place in spa water, because they suggest that mineral content of the water may make a difference, other studies show that hydrotherapy has significant benefits.

Hydrotherapy can help you on different ways:

• The warmth of the water allows your muscles to relax and eases the pain in your joints, helping you to exercise.
• The water can be used to provide resistance to moving your joints.

Scientific studies have shown that hydrotherapy can improve strength and general fitness in people with various types of arthritis. It is effective and you can start slowly and gradually build up your strength and flexibility.  Adsicionally, alternating hot and cold water, you can decrease inflammation and stimulate circulation and lymphatic drainage.

Types of hydrotherapy

• Watsu.
• Sitz bath.
• Warm water baths.
• Steam bath or Turkish bath.
• Sauna.
• Compresses.
• Wraps.
• Contrast hydrotherapy.
• Warming socks.
• Hot fomentation.
• Hydrotherapy pool exercises.

Precautions

Hydrotherapy may not be appropriate in certain circumstances:

• Cardiovascular disease or high blood pressure.
• Fever.
• Inflammation (Warming may not be recommended for acute injuries).
• Kidney disease.
• Cancer.
• Pregnancy.
• Decreased sensitivity to hot and/or cold.

Curiosities-on: