It’s essential to stay active year-round, but the increase in temperature brings with it the risk of heat exhaustion, fatigue, muscle cramping, heat stroke, and even heat collapse. It’s important to drink plenty of water, avoid the hottest part of the day, and to know your limits and listen to your body.
As the weather warms up, it becomes harder to engage in physical activities like walking, jogging, or hiking as it’s just too hot!
Are you planning on spending your summer in the pool? Why not try hydrotherapy, a water-based treatment that keeps you active and is incredibly beneficial for your health.
What is hydrotherapy?
Hydrotherapy is a form of physical therapy that combines hands-on treatment and guided movements in water. The water is generally around 33 to 36° Celsius, which allows your muscles to relax while easing the pain in your joints.
The water also helps by supporting your weight, increasing the range of movement in your joints. Resistance from the water will also increase your muscle strength.
In general, hydrotherapy is seen as the safest exercise for people with muscle and joint conditions.
Is hydrotherapy right for you?
If you suffer from pain in your back, hip, knees, or shoulders, then hydrotherapy may have benefits for you.
Hydrotherapy is also often prescribed as a form of post-surgery rehabilitation as floating will lessen the strain on your body when performing certain exercises.
Similarly, hydrotherapy is safer for the older population as they won’t fall or hurt themselves in the water.
The benefits
Hydrotherapy can have a variety of benefits, including:
- Relieving muscle pain and spasms
- Improving flexibility
- Increasing muscle strength
- Increasing the range of motion in your joints
- Improving circulation
- Improving posture
- Improving walking ability
- Decreasing pain and swelling
All while improving your cardiovascular fitness and helping you achieve your recommended level of physical activity.
