Hydrotherapy

What is Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy or "water therapy" is the treatment of disease by the external use of water. Hydrothermal therapy is the use of water temperature, such as in hot tubs and spas.  Hot tub hydrotherapy is one of the most popular and effective ways to treat a wide variety of medical conditions, injuries and other health problems.  The combination of heat, massage and buoyancy not only relaxes the mind and body, but also heals.

How Does Hydrotherapy Work?

The healing and recuperative properties of hydrotherapy are due to it's thermal and mechanical effects. It employs the body's reaction to hot and cold stimuli. The nerves carry impulses from the skin deeper into the body. This is instrumental in lessening pain sensitivity, increasing blood flow and circulation, decreasing the production of stress hormones and stimulating the immune system.

• The focus of hydrotherapy is to rid the body of toxins that may be causing joint pain and inflammation.
• Hydrotherapy treatments are helpful in managing chronic conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis and osteoarthritis. The warm water eases aches and pains, while loosening joints to prevent stiffness. 
• Muscle weakness, joint problems, balance disorders, diabetes and other diseases that impair circulation, cramps, premenstrual syndrome, back pain, muscular-skeletal injuries and soft tissue injuries are also helped with regular hot tub hydrotherapy. 
• In a two week pilot study, fourteen patients with ankylosing spondylitis (AS- chronic inflammation of the spine and the sacroiliac joints) were treated using hot water mineral baths. Physicians noted a significant improvement in finger to floor distance, morning stiffness and over all well-being. A significant reduction in the use of pain-relieving medication was also noted. These improvements began after one week of treatment and were still present after three months.
• Look at our Jets Page to find out more about targeting specific areas of the body for maximum hydrotherapy benefit. 

Hydrotherapy Risks

• People with impaired temperature sensation run the risk of scalding or frostbite at temperature extremes.
• Elderly people and young children may be prone to exhaustion by too much heat and should avoid long full body hot treatments.
• Consult a physician to determine whether a physical therapy is suitable for your case when a condition is persistent or recurrent.  Also consult your doctor if you are pregnant or have a heart disease