The Effectiveness of Combating Rheumatoid Arthritis With Hydrotherapy

Hydrotherapy sounds like a complicated treatment procedure, but in essence it is very simple. By definition, hydrotherapy is the idea that water can be used for purposes that benefit a person’s health. Typically, the benefits of hydrotherapy have been ascribed to pain relief, particularly the relief of rheumatoid arthritis and other conditions that cause joint and muscle pain. But is it truly effective?

Does Hydrotherapy Help Patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a condition that affects 20-30 million Americans, and typically onsets in middle age. It is extremely painful and results in a profound limitation of movement, which can significantly reduce the quality of life for those suffering from it. The benefits of hydrotherapy for the relief of rheumatoid arthritis have been studied for many years, dating back to the 1800’s. Many studies, including one by Oxford, conclude that “such an endeavour should produce therapeutic benefit has some support in the literature, although the precise mechanism by which benefit is achieved is debatable” (http://rheumatology.oxfordjournals.org/content/40/1/4.full). That being said, hydrotherapy continues to invoke controversy among many in the medical community.

Techniques for the Hydrotherapeutic Treatment of Arthritis

Typically, hydrotherapy sessions for the treatment of arthritis involve submersion in a tub of water. The water’s pressure and temperature are said to reduce stress, improve circulation, and provide a massage-like effect on the muscles. Also, it allows people whose movement is limited by arthritis to exercise, using the water as a resistance tool in a comfortable environment. It is important to mention that although not everyone in the medical community considers this form of treatment a valid option for the management of arthritis symptoms, the use of hydrotherapy for treatment of rheumatic illnesses continues to endure all over the world nonetheless. This is probably due to the fact that the treatment is regarded by patients as a very pleasant experience, and one that’s “worth a try” even if a patient is skeptical. One does not need to know how to swim to undergo this type of therapy; indeed, many companies sell walk in tubs that are easily accessible by anyone regardless of age and physical condition. Also, most commercial hot tubs offer pressure relief, yet do not have the ability to provide contrasting temperature relief.

The Bottom Line

People have continued to use hydrotherapy techniques for the treatment of rheumatoid arthritis despite the controversy in the medical community. There are studies that suggest that it does indeed reduce the pain and discomfort caused by rheumatic conditions, and results in a decrease of stress and an increase in circulation, resulting in pain relief and general well-being. Truly, hydrotherapy will continue to be used for its comfortable methods as well as its physical benefits