Therapeutic Properties of Hydrotherapy

Many physicians and physical therapists recommend water
therapy or water massage for rehabilitative therapy. The
Arthritis Foundation is one such credible source and has found
that the "warmth, massage effect, and buoyancy, needed to
both relax and exercise joints and muscles in the convenience
of one's home is available in home whirlpool baths or spas."

The Arthritis Foundation further states that, "Soaking in
water allows muscles to become relaxed, which enables one to
perform range of motions exercises and to carry out daily tasks
with less pain and strain."

The Scientific Basis of Hydrotherapy

The hydrotherapy bath is a valuable system for healing and
rehabilitation treatments recognized to possess the following
benefits in modern medical texts:

• Promotes relaxation, rest, and recovery.
• Increases the circulation throughout the body.
• Softens connective tissue, increases collagen extensibility
and decreases joint pain.
• Relief from muscle pain.
• Relief from muscle spasms and cramps.
• Reduces nervous stress.
• Stimulates the immune system.

How does Hydrotherapy Work?

There are three factors at work in a hydrotherapeutic bath:
heat, buoyancy, and massage.

1. Immersion in hot water raises the body temperature and
causes the blood vessels to dilate, resulting in increased
circulation.

2. The buoyancy of the water reduces body weight by
approximately 90%, relieving pressure on joints and muscles
and creating the relaxing sensation of weightlessness.

3. The massaging action of a spa is created by sending a
mixture of water and air through jet nozzles. This "energized"
stream of water relaxes tight muscles and stimulates the release
of endorphins, the body's natural pain killers.

Who can benefit from Hydrotherapy?

Everyone! Soaking in the hot, swirling water of a Sigma
Whirlpool Bathtub leaves you feeling both mentally and
physically relaxed. Just spending ten minutes in a Sigma
Whirlpool Bathtub before bedtime can make it easier to drift
into a deep restful sleep.

Disclaimer: If you are pregnant, have hyper tension or high
blood pressure or heart disease, please consult with your doctor
before starting a hot water therapy program. Your doctor can
help determine if warm water therapy is appropriate for you.