Benefits of Hydrotherapy

For centuries, water has been used as a treatment for a wide range of ailments. Today, hydrotherapy is still used as an important healing tool – leading people to seek relief from saunas, hot tubs, and even just at home in the shower or bath. Not only does water help cleanse the body and remove harmful toxins, the healing benefits of hydrotherapy can offer a natural solution to address a variety of health concerns.

No matter what kind of issues you’re struggling with, chances are hydrotherapy will be able to provide you with some relief – and if nothing else, the experience will certainly offer a boost of energy and promote healthy sleep. Before turning to pharmaceutical options to try and manage your health, try treating some of these problems with some water and steam. You might be surprised by how effective this treatment can be for virtually all kinds of ailments.

Pain relief

Whether you’re dealing with chronic pain as a result of a condition like arthritis or fibromyalgia, or acute pain due to an injury, hydrotherapy can provide significant pain relief. Hot water can help soothe the discomfort associated with these issues, and cold water can effectively decrease muscle spasms and inflammation. Many hot tubs and even some showers come equipped with jets that are strategically placed to massage sore muscles, providing further relief for many pain sufferers.

Improved heart function

Studies show that when patients with chronic heart failure are immersed in water, they show significant improvements in heart function – with no adverse reactions. This can be explained by a decreased heart rate, increased diastolic filling, and dilated veins and arteries – promoting circulation and even helping to lower blood pressure.

Hydrotherapy and water-based exercises are often suggested to patients who have suffered strokes or undergone heart surgeries to help them rehabilitate and get back on their feet. However, if you suffer from heart disease or any other cardiovascular issues, it’s best to talk to a doctor before attempting any kind of alternative therapy.

Solves congestion

Hydrotherapy is a great way to fight many of the symptoms associated with colds and flus, as hot water can help unclog nasal passages, loosen phlegm, and reduce sinus pressure. This is also useful for individuals who suffer from asthma or allergies, as congestion is a frequent complaint associated with these conditions. Cold water can also be used to help reduce inflammation in the throat and chest, which can also lead to symptoms of congestion.

Hydrotherapy can be applied to treat congestion in a variety of ways beyond complete immersion, as well. Sufferers can try a warm footbath with steam, a hot or cold compress, or even filling a neti pot with a water and salt solution and pouring it through the nostrils to clear out the nasal passages.

Remedies skin conditions

The cleansing, detoxifying effects of water makes hydrotherapy an ideal natural solution for people suffering from chronic skin conditions – including eczema, psoriasis, and even acne. Not only does water help remove toxins and dead cells from the surface of the skin to reduce the formation of blemishes, it provides increased hydration to keep your skin looking and feeling fresh and smooth. Hydrotherapy also increases blood flow to the skin, which will give you a healthy-looking glow.

Alleviates stress

Stress can impact your life in a variety of ways – but one of the more serious consequences of unmanaged stress is your increased risk of developing serious diseases and illnesses. Hydrotherapy helps reduce stress levels by promoting relaxation and mood improvement, helping you sleep better and feel more energized throughout the day. With warm water, massaging jets, and soothing, rhythmic waves, hydrotherapy is one of the best ways to unwind and let yourself slip into a blissful, pleasant state of pure relaxation. There’s nothing better for your mental health than a good soak in a hot tub.

Hydrotherapy can even be combined with other natural treatments, including aromatherapy and chromotherapy, to provide a unique healing experience – right in your own home. If you suffer from chronic pain or other ongoing health concerns, investing in a safe, comfortable bath for hydrotherapy might provide you with the care you need, without facing the potential side effects associated with many common medical treatments.

This guest post was written by Sam Socorro from Steam Shower Store. She has over 10 years’ experience in writing health related topics and specializes in the health benefits of saunas and hydrotherapy.