Hydrotherapy Treatment Methods

Earlier this week we gave a brief introduction to Hydrotherapy. This water therapy can be used for rehabilitation and can improve muscle strength and cardio ability.  Aquatic Therapy, Whirlpool Baths, and Hot/Cold Water Therapy are some of the common Hydrotherapy treatment methods. Below we’ve briefly described each of these treatment methods.

Aquatic Therapy

Aquatic Therapy consists of exercising while immersed in water. Moving in the water is different than moving on land. A lot more force is required to move when immersed in water. This makes it ideal to exercise in the water as there is some resistance, but that resistance is low impact. To add more resistance to your aquatic workout, it is good to use low-impact exercisers such as the CanDo® Hand Bar or the CanDo® Swim Bar. Using these products can improve balance and stabilization while increasing muscle tone and flexibility. The buoyant and durable closed cell foam from these CanDo® products makes it the perfect tool for aquatics, exercise routines and therapy.

Whirlpool Baths

Whirlpool Baths immerse the body in a pressurized bubble bath. This method of Hydrotherapy helps with burns, sores, wounds and can even alleviate stress. The size of the tank of the whirlpool can vary. If full immersion is not necessary, then smaller tanks with adjustable benches in the tank can aid in this treatment method.

Hot/Cold Water Therapy

Hot or cold therapy can be used separately or together depending on what healing process you are trying to achieve. Relief Pak® Moist Heat Packs when used with Heating Units provide soothing moist heat and comfort to reduce pain and stiffness. Moist heat packs are placed in hot water until they are hot enough to be applied to the affected area. To reduce swelling and inflammation, cold therapy is the better option. To practice cold therapy, using a reusable Relief Pak® English Cap ice bag is a great choice. Simply fill the bag with ice from the freezer and apply to any area that needs cold treatment.

Hydrotherapy is great for rehabilitation, exercise and for soothing aches and pains. Aquatic Exercise, Whirlpool Baths and Hot/Cold Water Therapy are just some of the hydrotherapy treatment methods you can use. To find out what method is best for you, please consult with your doctor.

To view our aquatic therapy products, click here.

For our line of whirlpools, click here.

Article written by William Graves.