Water is particularly healing through both its mechanical and thermal effects. Heat is used to relax the muscles and increase circulation, which is useful for oxygenating the muscles and soothing pain. The nerves at the skin carry this response to deeper structures in the body with positive benefits such as stimulating the immune system, influencing the production of stress hormones, improving circulation and digestion, encouraging the flow of blood, and decreasing the body’s sensitivity to pain.
When in the hydrotherapy pool, the buoyancy of the water releases the body from the effects of gravity. The therapist may assist this benefit using buoyancy aides. Freedom from the effects of gravity assists improved balance and enables the body to move, exercise and strengthen specific muscles or joints in a safe manner with less risk of pain.
The resistance of water is particularly useful in hydrotherapy programs. The therapist will guide you in a graduated program using the water resistance to strengthen and condition the muscles and joints. Water
has a hydrostatic effect or pressure that improves blood flow, heart and lung function. The pressure gently massages the body and stimulates the skin receptors to aid in the relaxation of tight muscles.