What is Naturopathic Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is extremely important to naturopathic medicine. It uses the therapeutic benefits of water applied in various temperatures to induce specific outcomes. Naturopathic practitioners can use hydrotherapy to soothe or stimulate the systems within the body. Often hydrotherapy is used in conjunction with other natural therapies. Water is the most flexible medium and can create desired effects through thermic and mechanical techniques. It is capable of absorbing heat and is considered a universal solvent. Hydrotherapy can help relieve headaches, sinus infections, and colds. It can aid in soothing aching muscles, as well as, speed up the healing process with muscles and joints. Hydrotherapy can lower fevers and promote circulation. Varying the temperature of the water can reduce stress, inflammation, stimulate the immune system and improve circulation.

What can hydrotherapy be used for?

Colds, flu, and infections
Insomnia, stress, headaches
Immune system disorders
Pain relief
Injuries and inflammatory conditions
Circulatory and respiratory disorders
Detoxification and elimination
Increases energy levels, regulates blood sugar levels

What are the different types of hydrotherapy?

Constitutional hydrotherapy
Russian Steam bath
Peat Immersion bath
Contrast hydrotherapy
Enterolavage

Is Hydrotherapy safe?

Generally speaking, hydrotherapy is safe, however, should not be used in patients with decreased sensory abilities as in the elderly, diabetic and infants. These populations are at higher risk for injury. Hydrotherapy should not be used over hemorrhagic areas, malignancy, peripheral vascular disease, gastric ulcers, and conditions that may become exacerbated by extreme cold. Patients with hypertension should consult with their physician prior to therapy. (This would include the use of hot tubs and other heating therapies.) Hydrotherapy can be in conjunction essential oils. Great caution should be exercised as this may cause an allergic reaction.

I hope you have a better understanding of Naturopathic hydrotherapy. If you have any questions, please feel free to message me. I would be happy to help!

Until next time, I wish you love, peace and good health.

Christine Emerson