Benefits of Hydrotherapy
Benefits of Hydrotherapy
Principles of Hydrotherapy
Physiological changes in the body are triggered initially by the buoyancy effect of water and the transference of heat into the body. In an ordinary bath, a film of water hugs the body, quickly cooling to body temperature. This ‘wet suit’ effect effectively prevents the transference of heat into the body. Hydrotherapy, with its circulating currents, breaks up this film and allows for immediate and effective transfer of heat, relaxing tense muscles and increasing blood flow to tissues. The warmth has a sedative effect on nerve endings and therefore reduces pain and discomfort. The buoyancy effect eliminates the effect of gravity and allows for more freedom and comfort of movement of joints and muscles. The pressure also tends to release endorphins, the same pain-killing substances that are released by vigorous exercise, massage or acupuncture.
The stimulation of the circulation occurs without increasing the ‘effort’ or rate of the heart. In consequence there is less strain on the heart muscle, an improvement in problems related to poor circulation, an improvement in skin tone and a reduction in the stress hormones circulating in the blood stream. The result is an increase in relaxation and general well-being.
After vigorous exercise
Hydrotherapy is of benefit in promoting recovery and preventing subsequent stiffness. This is because the greatly increased blood flow to exercised muscles may cause fluid to spill out into the tissues, which may then become swollen, tense and stiff. Hydrotherapy will promote the return flow of the lymph and drainage of waste products from the muscles, hastening recovery.
In injury
Pain and muscle tension are virtually synonymous, as nature seeks to prevent movement in a damaged limb by causing the local muscles to tighten up and provide ‘natural splinting’. It is this spasm which is the cause of most pain. Reduction of the spasm with gentle pressure is therefore sought until the local muscles and the body as a whole are suitably relaxed. A more direct approach is then possible, with higher pressures, to disperse local collections of fluid (blood or lymph) at the site of injury and to produce mechanical effects on the tissues themselves. In acute injury, avoid direct pressure, for 48 hours as the tissues are vulnerable to further damage, seek only to induce general relaxation and reduction of muscle spasm initially. This does not apply in simple stiffness due to over-use when there is no direct injury.
Mind and Body
In recent scientific literature there has been a growing awareness and acceptance that the mind can and does affect the state of the physical body. Now, unlike thirty years ago, very few doctors would argue against the statement that ‘Mental stress can cause physical disease’. Past emotional or mental pain and stress can create a distortion in our bodies, usually by the over tightening of muscles. Often, we fail to release these points of tension even after the emotional or mental cause has been resolved. Constant stress from work, family problems, etc. will lead to huge decrease in the flexibility and ease of movements in our bodies, which in turn causes a distortion in posture. This interferes with the efficient working of the body systems, causing stiffness in the joints, tense sore muscles and congestion, or even malfunction of an internal organ.
Hydrotherapy offers an excellent way in which to regain and maintain a relaxed, healthy and pain free body. A body in a state of ease and balance can significantly help us to handle an often over-stressed modern life.
Positive changes your body goes through as you use the Hydrotherapy System
Initial Treatment
After five minutes - Blood pressure and pulse rate return to normal.
After ten minutes - Circulation improves in hands and feet.
After fifteen minutes - The muscles relax and become more receptive to passive exercise, fibrous tissue becomes more pliable and responsive to stretching, encouraging the release of lactic acid and other toxins from the system.
After twenty minutes - Aches and pains experience a decrease in severity.
After 3 treatments - The immune system is improved.
After 5 treatments - Emotional stress and physical tension are noticeably reduced.
After 10 treatments - Pain relief is longer lasting and there is a greater sense of well being.
After 20 treatments - There is heightened resistance to disease and depression. The skin is clearer and ‘glows’ with health. Muscle tone and mobility improves.
Aspara’s Hydra-Spa also has a steam cabin and traditional sauna, both excellent for releasing harmful toxins, cleansing the skin and improving circulation. It is also an excellent precursor to massage, warming and relaxing the muscles as well as skin treatments, cleansing the pores of impurities. Lockers, towels, robes and slippers are provided.
The cost for a single session (90 minutes ) is £12.50,
As a precursor to treatment (over £20.00) £ 9.00
Spa sessions may also be pre-paid as a course of six , attracting a 10% discount.