| Home > Site Map > Recommendations > H > Hydrotherapy |
| Water therapy is available in a wide variety of applications and is useful in a broad range of conditions. Treatment normally consists of applying a hot cloth for 3 minutes then a cold cloth for 30 seconds, alternating 3 times in a row. The treatment can be done several times a day. It is also very important to end the treatment with the cold application. The hot application may be quite hot, but never hot enough to burn or scald. Water works on the body reflexively. This means that when water is applied to one part of the body, other parts of the body are also stimulated by reflex action. Hot Foot Bath A hot foot bath is the immersion of both feet and ankles in hot water for 10-30 minutes and is an excellent way to draw blood from inflamed or congested areas of the body. Wrap the upper body in a blanket to avoid chilling. Using a large dishpan or the bathtub, immerse both feet and ankles in warm water. Keep adding hot water until it is as hot as can be tolerated. Place a cool washcloth on the forehead (keep the washcloth cool during entire treatment by wringing it out in cool water). As the water cools, add more hot water to maintain the hot temperature. This treatment is not recommended for patients with peripheral vascular disease (arteriosclerosis, deep vein thrombosis, Buerger's disease), diabetes or loss of peripheral sensation. It is an effective therapy for sore throat, cold, flu, and sinus congestion when it is administered to the throat or feet. If necessary, warm feet in warm water before beginning treatment. Wet a pair of white cotton socks in cold water and wring them out well. Perform this treatment every night while congestion/illness lasts. This form of treatment is not used for conditions irritated by moisture or for very weak individuals. Sturdy storage containers are available in a variety of sizes from retail stores. Repeat this process at least three times and as often as once per day. This treatment is more involved than other hydrotherapy treatments but is very effective for almost every condition. |
| Bell's Palsy Cystitis, Bacterial bladder Infection Hives Hypotension Insomnia Low Back Pain Ovarian Cysts Phlebitis / Thrombophlebitis Vaginitis/Vaginal Infection |