Hydrotherapy has become a popular way to help people dealing with arthritis and other movement disorders. By using the unique qualities of water, warm water exercise can promote healing, increases mobility, and improves overall physical wellbeing. In this post, we’ll break down how warm water therapy works, its benefits, and insights from instructor Kat Smith.
Why Water is Great for Therapy
Buoyancy: Easing Joint Stress
One of the biggest advantages of hydrotherapy is buoyancy. When you’re in water, your body feels lighter—about 90% of your weight is supported by the water, depending on how deep you are. This buoyancy takes pressure off your joints, making it easier and safer to move, especially for those with arthritis, where joint pain is a common concern.
Kat Smith, an exercise scientist at The Hospital Research Foundation Group – Arthritis explains, “The water helps participants have confidence to move and be active in a way that is supportive, fun and eliminates their risk of falling; a common concern in many of our clients when exercising on land.”
Resistance: Building Strength
Water also offers natural resistance, which is important for building muscle. Since water is denser than air, moving through it requires more effort. This means you can strengthen your muscles without using heavy weights, making warm water exercise a safe choice for those with limited mobility.
“Even a simple move like a leg swing becomes more effective due to the natural resistance of the water, making it not only an exercise for hip mobility but also one for strengthening the surrounding muscles and supporting structures,” Kat says.
“Over time with regular exercise, strengthening activities can help to reduce load on joints, alleviating pain, as well as improving balance and reducing the risk of falls”.
Health Benefits of warm Water Exercise
Better Circulation
Warm water, usually around 34 degrees Celsius, along with the natural compression of water, can help to improve blood flow, reducing stiffness and swelling in the short term. This increased circulation aids in delivering oxygen and nutrients to muscles and organs, supporting overall health and well-being.
Increased Flexibility
Hydrotherapy encourages gentle stretching and movements that can boost flexibility. The warm water relaxes your muscles, allowing you to move more freely, minimising risk of injury.
Pain Relief and Relaxation
Warm water is soothing and can significantly alleviate pain. Immersion in water can stimulate the release of endorphins, the body’s natural pain relievers. Additionally, the calming properties of water can help reduce stress and anxiety, factors that can exacerbate chronic pain.
Hydrotherapy for Arthritis and Movement Disorders
For people with arthritis, hydrotherapy offers a low-impact exercise option. Participants can focus on building strength, flexibility, and balance in a safe environment, which can lead to improved ability in daily activities.
For those with movement disorders like Parkinson’s, warm water therapy can help with coordination and stability. Hydrotherapy can help them focus on their movements with a reduced sense of instability.
Ready to see for yourself?
Adding hydrotherapy to treatment plans for arthritis and movement disorders offers a holistic approach to manage symptoms. With its unique qualities of buoyancy and resistance, water creates a safe, effective, and enjoyable space for exercise and healing. Hydrotherapy is not just about physical benefits; it’s about helping people enhance their mobility and improve their quality of life.
If you or someone you know is thinking about hydrotherapy, visit our hydrotherapy program page to learn more or enroll today! Embrace the healing power of water and take a step toward enhanced mobility and wellbeing!
