The Many Benefits Of Hydrotherapy
When a person has an extremity injury such as their arm and hand or leg and foot, hydrotherapy is often used as a treatment, but there is no need for full body immersion. The use of extremity whirlpools has long assisted in the healing of various ailments and is an important part of physical therapy techniques in hospitals and doctor’s offices.
Hydrotherapy At A Glance
By definition, hydrotherapy is simply the use of water in the treatment of illnesses and injuries. This includes everything from cold compresses to help with swelling to warm poultices to help with pain. It’s history dates back to the Romans who used healing waters in saunas and herbal treatments, but once their reign was over, hydrotherapy didn’t come back again until the 18th and 19th century in Europe and didn’t hit the United States until the mid-19th century.
While many people did not have access to health care, hydrotherapy was an easy and inexpensive way to alleviate the symptoms of many ailments and injuries. Water was abundant and the treatments could be done at home. This was of considerable value to people that lived in rural areas and could get to hospitals or doctors on a regular basis. Today, it’s used for a variety of reasons including in Whitehall Whirlpools to help with injuries and physical therapy.
How the Body Reacts To Hydrotherapy
The human body reacts differently when exposed to hot and cold water. Hot water heats up the body and the body tries to keep the body cool by dilating blood vessels, opening skin pores and relaxing muscles. The exact opposite happens when exposed to cold water. The body constricts vessels to reduce blood flow, pores close and muscles tense.
In the case of Whitehall Whirlpools, the body or part of the body is submersed in the water, it can cold or hot water depending on the needs, along with specific chemical and pressure properties to help injuries such as arthritis pain, muscle pain and back pain.
The Whitehall Whirlpool Difference
When a patient is prescribed hydrotherapy, it’s important they are given the best machines to help facilitate healing. Whether you need full immersion for athletes and patients or extremities and podiatry whirlpools, Whitehall is a trusted name.
They are welded from heavy gauge stainless steel and polished to a mirror shine. They feature spring balanced turbine rising and lowering, automatic thermal overload protector and lifetime-sealed bearings.
If you’re interested in learning more about hydrotherapy and Whitehall Whirlpools, contact us today.
