Aquatic Therapy, Water Therapy or Hydrotherapy

Introduced to Britain by bathhouse-loving Romans, hydrotherapy is now recognized for its potential to promote well-being, reduce anxiety and alleviate chronic pain - and you don't even have to be able to swim to reap the rewards

What is it?
It's believed that the thermal properties of water assist healing. The body's reaction to hot and cold water causes the nerves at the surface of the skin to carry impulses deep into the body. This reaction is thought to lessen pain sensitivity, stimulate the immune system, aid lymphatic drainage and increase blood circulation. So, whether you're taking a long, languorous bath, standing under an icy-cold shower, or spending two hours in a saline flotation tank, you are in effect harnessing the healing power of water.



Is there any evidence?
In 1994, researchers in France published a study in the Journal of Rheumatology to assess the effect of hydrotherapy on chronic lower back pain. Over three weeks one group of suffers was treated with medication, the other treated with both medication and hydrotherapy. Results showed that the patients receiving hydrotherapy showed significant improvement in flexibility and a noticeable reduction in pain intensity.
A US study in the late 90s confirmed these findings. The 40-person study carried out at the University of Minnesota showed that 85% of participants would chose a whirlpool bath over a still one and that, while both baths reduced participants' anxiety levels, the whirlpool bath reduced participants' reactivity to stress.



Where does it come from?
The healing properties of water were recognised by the ancient Egyptians in 2000BC. The Romans were also strong believers in the power of hydrotherapy. The UK was slower off the mark, although historical research suggests that from as early as AD1138 people traveled from all over England to Bath to wash away infirmities.
The ancient tradition of bathing has gradually evolved into several modern treatments including the Jacuzzi, Watsu (underwater shiatsu), Jahara, flotation tanks, the Vichy shower and thalassotherapy, which involves immersion in seawater pools of different temperatures and degrees of salinity.

Who can do it?
Everybody can benefit from hydrotherapy, even those who can't swim (hydrotherapy treatments such as the Vichy shower and Watsu do not require you to support yourself in water). Hydrotherapy particularly benefits those suffering from arthritis, fibromyalgia and back pain, and those who have had joint replacements. Insomniacs may also find hydrotherapy beneficial, because water has a deeply soothing and relaxing effect on the body.

What results can I expect?
Immersion in warm water often has a satisfyingly soporific effect. Much like taking a hot bath, hydrotherapy is likely to leave you both physically and mentally relaxed. Hunger is also a common after-effect.
Flotation is generally the most invigorating of hydrotherapies. An hour-long float has been likened to having the same restorative effect as a four-hour sleep.

Contra-indications
Children, the elderly and anyone who is pregnant should avoid extremes of temperature because of the risk of fainting or shock. Discontinue treatment immediately if you experience light headiness, and rest for at least 20 minutes after any treatment to allow your blood pressure and body temperature to normalize.
Treatment may not be suitable for people suffering from: open wounds or skin infections, a stomach virus, severe breathing difficulties, incontinence or a raised temperature.
Hydrotherapy should never be undertaken if you are under the influence of alcohol.