Hydrotherapy can be used in the treatment of arthritis, orthopaedic conditions, muscle, ligament and many other types of injury. It can also help with general convalescence, obesity and fitness training.
It's particular value comes about because of the effects of the warmth and pressure of the water, and the buoyancy provided. Some of the main benefits afforded by hydrotherapy treatment are :-
Relief of pain, swelling & stiffness
Promotion of relaxation
Joint mobilisation
Muscle strengthening, maintenance and restoration
Increase in the range of motion of affected joints
Improved circulation
Cardiovascular fitness (heart & lungs)
The encompassing warmth of the water will relax muscles by initiating an expansion of surface blood vessels and
increasing the skin temperature, which can bring about a decrease in pain & muscle spasm.
A decreased range of motion can often be due to pain or swelling, or stiffness. Stiffness can be eased as the warmth of the water causes blood vessels to expand.
Hydrostatic pressure applied by the water can assist in reducing swelling by causing a body fluid movement away from the affected area instead of to it. This is increased with exercising the limb to enhance the circulation.
Buoyancy decreases the loading onto weight bearing joints, which helps to reduce pain and can allow easier movement and exercise. The buoyancy of the water will help move the stiff joint into a further range of movement with minimal increase in pain.
Hydrotherapy
