Water is essential to our everyday lives. From drinking it to taking a bath in it, water helps us stay healthy and helps treat illness. Did you know that water is also used to ease or relieve some diagnosed conditions? Hydrotherapy is the use of water as therapy, and both hot and cold water have their own benefits. For many people, hydrotherapy is more beneficial than other types of exercise or therapy, since it is much easier on joints.
Decreased joint pain is not the only benefit you can gain from hydrotherapy. You may also feel relief from depression, headaches, muscle disorders, and conditions such as Multiple Sclerosis. Using both hot and cold water, treatments for each include the following.
Cold Water
- Decreased pain, specifically in the joints
- A reduction in inflammation
- Decreased tenderness in muscles
- Increased immune system
Hot Water
- Decreased pain, specifically in the joints
- Increased blood flow
- Relaxed muscles
- Decreased constipation
If you’re curious about the types of hydrotherapy available, you might be interested to know that even the slightest use of water to assist you in healing falls under this category. Remember the last time you twisted your ankle and applied an ice pack? You were using hydrotherapy. A list of popular techniques is given below.
Aquatic Exercise
This includes swimming and water aerobics. You can find aquatic exercise classes at most fitness centers that have a pool. You do not need to join a class, though. Simply jump in the pool and start swimming.
Physical Therapy With the Use of Water
More targeted than aquatic exercise. This treatment involves a certified physical therapist and will focus on certain aspects of your conditioning.
Taking a Bath
Yes, taking a bath falls under the category of hydrotherapy. Think back to the last bath you took. Were your muscles aching from a long day of yard work? Were you stress about an upcoming work project?
Sauna
Sitting in the sauna is incredibly relaxing. The more relaxed you are, the better equipped you are to handle everyday stressors. Increased relaxation also helps you sleep, improves your mood, and provides you with the energy you need to tackle your day.
Recently, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention stated that swimming has multiple benefits, especially for those suffering from arthritis, mental health issues, and older individuals. Swimming is an excellent way to work physical activity into your day, especially if other modes of exercise are too taxing on your body.
Now that you know some benefits of hydrotherapy, get out and hit the water today!
