Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy (aquatic therapy)

Hydrotherapy is the part of physiotherapy that involves the use of unique properties in water to achieve therapeutic benefits. It utilizes the physical properties of water to stimulate blood circulation and treat certain diseases. It involves the use of cold or hot water each of which has different effect on body. Hot water is chosen for its relaxing properties and to stimulate the immune system, whereas cold water is use to reduce inflammation. Using hot and cold water together can improve blood circulation and activate organ function. One must not confuse hydrotherapy with swimming. This is because it involves special exercises that have to be done in warm water pool. The concept of hydrotherapy has been around for thousands of years. The goals of this therapy are muscle relaxation and reducing pain.

Exercises such as floating, stretching, walking, jogging, general body movements, are beneficial. The physiotherapist will determine what all exercises are appropriate for the patient. By the end of the course, patient will have a set of exercises which they can continue to perform independently in future.

What does hydrotherapy do?

Many properties in water aid in providing relief. Being in the water can increase blood flow, and therefore oxygen transmission to important cells in organs and skin. The warmth of water eases stiffness in muscles and joints by increasing blood flow in the body. Cold water restricts blood flow to decrease inflammation by constricting blood vessels in the body. The extent of the effect varies with the temperature of water, length of treatment and severity of exercise. The effect of buoyancy allows for more degree of activity and hence exercises done in water are more effective than when done on land. Physiotherapists use their skills to find the main problem with person.

Benefits

• Management of acute or chronic pain
• Relieve arthritis pain
• Reduce muscle spasm
• Improve muscle flexibility
• Increase mobility
• Increases the strength of muscles
• Stimulate circulation
• Eliminates waste through detoxification
• Allows the muscle to relax
• It is painless and has no side effects

Contraindications

To undertake hydrotherapy the medical conditions of person needs to be stable. It should be avoided in following cases:

• Cardiac insufficiency
• Acute inflammatory conditions
• Cold baths should not be used for the elderly people and young children
• High temperature
• Respiratory dysfunction

Side-effects

• Some internal hydrotherapy techniques like colonic irrigation, enemas are not accepted since these can harm the natural balance of digestive tract.
• Overheating is the most common side effect, which can be very dangerous. This occurs when patient spends too much time in hot water.
• There might be the risk of allergic reaction in patients using oils and natural herbs in their bath water.
• People with heart problems are advised to avoid using saunas.

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