Water is a very important part of the human body and it is not possible to function without the proper levels of hydration. Furthermore, being in contact with water can also have other benefits to people of all ages, like the use of hydrotherapy. Hydrotherapy is a complementary therapy that uses water for health purposes such as back pain, anxiety, stress, high blood pressure, poor circulation, poor muscle and skin tone, soreness, headaches, and broken limbs.
It can be done in different ways but basically, it can be defined by moving and exercising in water. The most common methodologies are:
- Aquatic exercises: Water aerobics, done in group classes, especially popular for the elderly
- Aquatic physical therapy: Performed by a licensed physical therapist. It includes a specialized program for each person, changing the characteristics of the pool as well.
- Warm water baths: Warm water baths can increase blood flow and reduce pain and inflammation.
- Sitz bath: A good option for patients with hemorrhoids, an anal fissure, or healing from an episiotomy. It consists of sitting in warm water for about 15 minutes.
- Immersion therapies: Coldwater immersion, like an ice water bath or contrast water therapy (a series of brief immersions in warm and cold temperatures) can improve the feeling of relaxation in athletes, focusing on their performance and well-being.
There are also variants of hydrotherapy, such as hydro-massage which is a massage done by water jets in specific places while in the pool. The Kneipp system is also a similar treatment but done with herbal and mineral baths in different temperatures.
In conclusion, hydrotherapy can be done in many ways and with many benefits. When done properly and with the right medical assistance, the quality of life of patients can improve considerately.
Read also: Have You Ever Tried The Watsu (Water-Shiastu) Aquatic Therapy?
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About the Author: MSci Maísa Melo is a Pharmacist and a current PhD student in cosmetic technology, from São Paulo, Brazil. She has earned her master’s degree from the University of São Paulo and has been involved with the development, stability, safety and efficacy of cosmetics since 2013. She has specialized in the clinical efficacy of cosmetics by biophysical and skin imaging techniques as well as the use of alternative models to animal testing. Her research work has been published in several scientific journals and book chapters from the field.
