What is hydrotherapy? Hydrotherapy, or water cure, is a form of alternative medicine, occupational therapy, and physiotherapy, that involves the use of water to relieve and treat pain. Examples of hydrotherapy include saunas, hot tubs, steam baths, showers, contrast therapy, and water therapy.
Who is hydrotherapy useful for and how can I get it at home? Hydrotherapy is suitable for anyone who suffers from aches and pains, tension build-up, and stiffness. Using a portable hot tub is an excellent and cost-effective way to bring hydrotherapy benefits into your home.
How does hydrotherapy help you? Being weightless in the water relieves tension in the limbs and supports your aching muscles. Movement is more comfortable than when on land. Circulation is enhanced. Hydrotherapy also stimulates the release of endorphins which acts as a natural pain reliever, reduces inflammation, and heals injured tissue to reduce muscle soreness further. Endorphins also help to improve well-being and increase energy.
Let’s review the top 7 reasons you need hydrotherapy.
- Relieves pain
Hydrotherapy stimulates the release of endorphins which act as a natural pain reliever to reduce muscle soreness. Water therapy has been shown to benefit those with musculoskeletal conditions, including fibromyalgia, arthritis, and low back pain. - Reduces muscle tension
Floating in water can help relieve stress in the limbs and supports aching muscles while making movement easier. Soaking in water can make joints looser and can have a prolonged effect that goes beyond the period of immersion. - Rehabilitates injured muscles
Soaking in hot water raises your core body temperature, which increases the blood flow. Increased blood flow or circulation has been proven to help heal injured tissues and rehabilitee damaged muscles or joints. Coldwater immersion and contrast water therapy may help with recover after performing athletic activities. - Helps improve mobility and regain strength
General movements and stretching in water are beneficial to the body. Being buoyant allows freedom of movement that cannot be matched on land. Include the resistance of water, and you have a combination that cannot be beaten for those with limited strength and mobility. - Prevent and relieve stress
For many people, soaking in water is the ultimate in relaxation. Laying in warm water, breathing deeply, feeling weightless in your body, and closing your eyes, all contribute to just letting go of stress. Today’s lifestyle is stressful, and hot tubs can help alleviate stress. - Boosts the immune system
After soaking in a hot tub, your next step may be to take a cold shower for up to 30 seconds. When the cold water hits your skin, the nerve endings activate endorphins in the brain, and the immune system will be stimulated. - Encourage detoxification
Saunas and steam rooms induce sweating. Sweating flushes out impurities and toxins through the skin and helps to cleanse the body.
Hydrotherapy has been in practice since the 19th century when Father Sebastian Kneipp founded one of the first health farms in Europe, and the benefits are still recognized today. As we have learned, hydrotherapy can help with your physical and mental well-being.
Some people find it a challenge to experience the benefits of hydrotherapy at home, especially when reviewing a hot tub. We have found that a Softub Express portable hot tub is an excellent and affordable solution to bring the benefits of hydrotherapy to your home.
Remember, safety always comes first, and you should consult with your doctor before initiating any hydrotherapy treatments.