Hydrotherapy: The Cure for What Ails You

Hydrotherapy has been around for thousands of years, but recently in its more modern use it involves the simple use of water (either hot or cold), water jets, underwater massage and even aromatherapy, for the relief of symptoms associated with several ailments.

Allowing the buoyancy of the water to be used as a form of low-impact therapy has been the catalyst of hydrotherapy’s gain in popularity in the last 20 years. The use of a hot tub or spa has a positive impact both mentally and physically, and the fact that it doesn’t require a visit to a doctor or a physical therapist makes it even more alluring. From the comfort of your own home,  you can enjoy the benefits of relaxation and hydrotherapy massage.

Stress and Migraines

Tension and stress are often triggers of those who suffer from migraine headaches. Soaking in a hot tub or spa for at least 30 minutes allows the body to release tension and stress from stiff muscles and tense joints, thereby relieving the pain of a migraine. While some migraine sufferers also suffer from depression as well, the release of endorphins (the feel-good hormone) during the soak brings relief to those symptoms as well. For an extra dash of relaxation, add a few drops of lavender essential oil to your hot tub or spa.

Insomnia

The National Sleep Foundation has suggested that insomnia sufferers soak in warm water before bed to induce feelings of drowsiness and sleep. When it’s time to get out of the spa, the drop in temperature signals the body that its time to go to sleep, giving your body a calming effect without the use of sleep aids or medication that can cause morning drowsiness.

Sore Muscles, Joints & Arthritis

A “soak” isn’t just for the tough pro athletes anymore. Because the whirlpool effect of a hot tub or spa promotes blood circulation, getting blood flow to the sore muscles and joints on your body can help repair the damage from the day. Hydrotherapy can be especially beneficial to those suffering from Rheumatoid Arthritis (RA), treating the joint pain and stiffness associated with the illness.

Diabetes

A recent Colorado study of diabetic patients who soaked in a spa 30 minutes a day, 6 days a week, saw the average blood sugar level of the study group drop 13%. Continued use of the spa can result in lower blood pressure and blood sugar levels, reduce swelling, joint tenderness and insomnia–common symptoms associated with diabetes.

Other Joint Pain Illnesses and Diseases

For those suffering from other common ailments such as Fibromyalgia, Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Tendonitis, Bursitis, and Scoliosis as well as diseases such as Multiple Sclerosis and Cerebral Palsy, studies have shown a significant number of patients who found relief of their symptoms with hydrotherapy massage.

Overall, anyone can benefit from owning a hot tub or spa for not only its medicinal purposes, but for the relaxation and overall health and well being of the entire family!

Blog by Cox Pools: http://www.coxpools.com/story/