Essentially, hydrotherapy is the use of water to treat bodily ailments—from general aches and pains to chronic diseases. There a numerous forms of hydrotherapy including but not limited to compress and bath. And within these forms there are various types of applications.

Hot tubs or spas provide a submerged bathing therapy known as balneotherapy. Hot tubs utilize several “wellness” aides: buoyancy, resistance, heat, and pressure, which are excellent sources for health benefits.

Buoyancy reduces the effects of gravity, which removes pressure from the body—particularly from� joints. Resistance aids in muscle strength and endurance by adding forces against body movement. Heat dilates blood vessels thereby improving blood circulation and lowering blood pressure. Pressure is applied through the massaging jets that sooth sore muscles.

Read more about the positive effects of hot tub bathing.

Saunas provide a bathing therapy most notable for inducing relaxation and perspiration. Saunas provide numerous health benefits because they are constructed to promote heat.

Steam from traditional saunas relieves respiratory symptoms such as congestion, sinus pressure, sore throat, and lung conditions. Steam combined with the high heat detoxifies the body of impurities. In addition, heat is an excellent means for promoting cardiovascular health. The deep-penetrating, safe UV rays emitted by infrared saunas intensify muscular health benefits.

Read more about the wellness benefits of steam bathing.