Hydrotherapy for Seniors
What is hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is a therapeutic technique commonly used in older adults in which heated water is used as treatment. It is a type of physical therapy used for treating various types of injuries and diseases. It is performed in specially designed heated pools and is highly recommended for older adults who are experiencing pain from a physical disorder or illness.
How does it work?
The main therapeutic element is warm water as, according to professional therapists, its thermal effects alleviate various pains. These stimulate the immune system by applying heat and pressure to the body. Heat is used by many people to soothe muscular and joint aches. At Dr7 Hydrotherapy Yokine, we are one of the few physio clinics that has an onsite hydrotherapy pool in Perth. Our pool is heated to a warm 34 degrees to increase blood circulation, improving muscle tightness and joint flexibility.
Once an older adult is submerged in water, they will experience a massage-like feeling because of the hydrostatic effect. As a result, the nerves will then carry the heat and pressure deeper into the body where it can help improve blood circulation, lessen the body’s reaction to pain, and eliminate stress hormones.
Who can benefit from hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is commonly used for older people who suffer from various ailments that affect their mobility. Older people who are suffering from neurological conditions can also benefit greatly from it.
Water and heat therapy has been used since ancient times for all types of pain and injuries. At Dr7 Physiotherapy Joondanna, we offer different classes for different types of participants in our hydrotherapy pool. We have supervised one on one rehabilitation as well as arthritis and aqua fitness classes.
It reduces muscle tension
When submerged in water, you will feel the weightlessness of your body as it relieves aching muscles and reduces tension. It is believed that the hydrotherapy treatment allows you to release endorphins which will then act as a natural pain reliever. If you have had a tough day, you can always ask a physiotherapist at Dr7 Physiotherapy Tuart Hill or a caregiver to guide you during the treatment.
It rejuvenates aging or injured muscles
Once your body is immersed in warm or hot water, your body temperature will then rise and circulate the blood flow in your body. When blood circulation improves, it will then heal damaged tissues and rejuvenate injured muscles. People tend to become weaker as they grow older which is why going for a hydrotherapy treatment at Dr7 Physio Dianella is one way of rehabilitating aging muscles.
It improves your immune system
Warm water increases the blood flow and allows white blood cells to circulate throughout your body. It also helps the immune system fluid called lymph to move through the different parts of your body. This type of fluid is responsible for eliminating unwanted waste and toxins in your body and will help your body fight off various illnesses such as the cold and flu.
It cleanses your body
Hydrotherapy is also known for eliminating toxins from your body. The use hot or warm water and combining it with specific exercises will help with this.
It relieves stress and anxiety
Hydrotherapy exercises is believed to help reduce stress and anxiety as it helps in reducing blood pressure. In addition to that, older people will definitely enjoy taking a dip into the shallow heated water of the pool at Dr7 Physiotherapy Nollamara. We have group sessions which is a great way to socialise and have fun whilst improving your general health.
Now that you’re aware of the benefits of hydrotherapy, you should look at making an appointment at Dr7 Physio and Podiatry Yokine.