How does Hydrotherapy relieve Rheumatic Arthritis?

Rheumatic Arthritis- A peaceful and restorative plunge in a lovely, warm pool is probably on your mind right now. Many types of arthritis, including osteoarthritis and inflammatory types like rheumatoid arthritis, can be treated with Hydrotherapy.

Practical Hydrotherapy Tips for Arthritis Relief

While hydrotherapy sessions are often conducted in professional clinics, there are several ways to incorporate the benefits of water therapy into your home routine. Here are some useful tips:

Warm Water Baths: Soak in a bathtub filled with warm water (not hot) for 15–20 minutes to soothe stiff joints and muscles.
Gentle Water Exercises: In a pool, try walking or performing slow, gentle leg movements to maintain flexibility without stressing your joints.
Use of Epsom Salt: Adding Epsom salt to your bath can enhance muscle relaxation and reduce inflammation.
Consistency: Aim to engage in water therapy at least 2–3 times a week for cumulative benefits.

Always consult your rheumatologist or physiotherapist before starting any new treatment routine, especially if your arthritis symptoms are severe.

HYDROTHERAPY AND ITS BENEFITS

Hydrotherapy, or Aquatic therapy or Water therapy or Bath therapy, is an area of medicine that uses the physical properties of water – such as pressure, temperature, to help people overcome physical and psychological problems. Many of the procedures and techniques used in hydrotherapy employ water as a medium to induce thermoregulatory processes for therapeutic benefit.

Warm baths increase blood flow to stiff muscles and joints, making them ideal for gentle stretching. So, don’t just sit there; get warm rather than hot because warm baths are relaxing, on top of that, they also help circulate blood.

That’s one thing that sets hydrotherapy apart from spa treatment or swimming sessions like flotation or sitting in a pool to unwind. Traditional hydrotherapy entails more than soaking in warm water; it necessitates efforts.

HOW DOES HYDROTHERAPY HELP IN RHEUMATOID ARTHRITIS?

People with rheumatoid arthritis prefer hydrotherapy, which is described as supervised exercise in warm water, and research has analysed the impact of workouts in hot water compared to exercising on land. In RA, all Types of exercise increase function and well-being, and fears of illness worsening, even with vigorous exercises, have been disproven. Indeed, physical activity is a significant, although frequently overlooked, risk factor for cardiovascular disease.

For this treatment, a Physiotherapist who has specialised in pool therapy with workout equipment like an exercise bike or a treadmill. On a bike or exercise bike, the patient may be able to use bars to perform resistance workouts. Exercises conducted in a pool where the level must be at least waist, chest or shoulder height.

Many of the exercises are modified from those done on land, but the water decreases the pressure on ailing joints. Weights, resistance workouts, stretching, and cardio are all included in hydrotherapy for RA. Soaking in warm water relieves pressure on aching joints, promotes muscular relaxation, and allows for some fun water resistance exercises.

How Hydrotherapy Works?

Water generates resistance, which helps muscles develop strength. One of the major advantages of hydrotherapy is the reduction of gravitational force on the body. Patients experience less discomfort and move more freely underwater. This encourages improved mobility and pain-free exercise, which is often challenging on land. In aquatic therapy, patients may engage muscles that are otherwise difficult to activate during land-based movements.

Properties of Water – Particularly Beneficial for Rheumatoid Arthritis

PROPERTIES OF WATER – Particularly beneficial to people diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis

TEMPERATURE: The ideal water temperature ranges from 33–36°C. This warm temperature helps soothe muscles and joints, reducing stiffness and pain.
HYDROSTATIC PRESSURE: Water exerts pressure that increases with depth. This natural pressure helps reduce joint inflammation and improves circulation.
VISCOSITY: Water provides gentle resistance that helps in strengthening muscles during movement without overstraining joints.
BUOYANCY: This upward force supports body weight, decreasing the stress on joints and allowing easier and more comfortable movement.

Key Benefits of Hydrotherapy for Rheumatoid Arthritis

Hydrotherapy can significantly improve joint function, flexibility and reduce chronic pain associated with rheumatoid arthritis. Some key benefits include:

Improved joint mobility and muscle strength
Reduced joint pain and swelling
Enhanced cardiovascular fitness in a low-impact environment
Stress relief and improved mental well-being