What is Hydrotherapy? 

Jake Ricks

Most people view hot tubs simply as a way to relax or as a great place to enjoy time with friends and family. They are incredible places to socialize and relax. But what if your hot tub could do more for you? What if it could do a lot more?

No, we aren’t talking about time travel. We’re talking about hydrotherapy. This concept of healing, treatment along with physical and mental therapy is both an ancient art, practiced for centuries and a modern scientific breakthrough. Hydrotherapy has long been shown to be effective for treating a variety of conditions but it was once difficult to attain. However, with the modern day advancements in hot tub spa technology, you can enjoy hydrotherapy in your own backyard.

The Path to Modern Hydrotherapy

In 1949 Candido Enzo Jacuzzi is credited with designing a whirlpool bath to treat his son’s (Kenny Jacuzzi) rheumatism.* This whirlpool used a submersible pump small enough that it could be incorporated into a bath tub or small pool. This submersible pump and subsequent products marketed by Jacuzzi Brothers Inc. kicked off the modern era of at-home hydrotherapy in jetted tubs and outdoor spas and the Jacuzzi name is tied with some ambiguity to the entire hot tub and spa product category today.**

We’ve come a long way in our understanding of physiology and human health, yet hydrotherapy is still as highly regarded as ever as a specific medical therapy and way of leading a balanced life. Also sometimes called hydromassage, modern hydrotherapy centers around applying massage therapy techniques through the use of mechanically and thermally enhanced water. Today, hydrotherapy is recognized not only as a method for relaxation, but also as an effective treatment for several diseases and ailments. As we discuss below, anyone can benefit from the natural healing qualities of hydrotherapy massage.

Hydrotherapy for an Active Lifestyle

Many young, active adults find that hydro massage allows them to maintain a more active and healthy lifestyle. Hot tubs are a great way to support fitness goals including heavy training for certain sports and even weight loss.

Warm water therapy can help you loosen stiff muscles and joints, reduce swelling, and recover from a tough workout faster. And with further modern advances like the Bullfrog Spas patented JetPak Therapy System, you can create a customized massage to target virtually any muscle group in any part of the body.

In 2007, Men’s Health Magazine* found that hot water immersion can reduce post-workout muscle soreness by up to 40%. This can make a huge difference in your workout goals, whether you’re looking to hit the gym more frequently, finally reach a new PR, or train for a big race. Hydrotherapy is a popular technique in sports medicine and physical therapy, so why not enjoy the same benefits from the comfort of your own home?

Hydrotherapy for Older Adults

Hydrotherapy is Vital for Aging AdultsOlder adults can also benefit from hydrotherapy. As we age, our bodies become more susceptible to aches, pains, joint soreness and soft tissue injuries. Lower back pain, arthritis, neck pain, joint pain, and even symptoms of diabetes can all be relieved through the help of hydro massage and hydrotherapy.

In addition to treating your aches and pains, you can also use your hot tub to practice low impact exercises, such as hot tub yoga and water aerobics. This can be a great option for older adults who are looking to stay active without the risk of high-impact exercises.

Many suffering from sore muscles, chronic pain, joint pain, or even just everyday aches and pains turn to hydro massage as an all-natural pain relief treatment. Additionally, hydrotherapy massage is a great all-natural alternative to addictive pain killers.

Hydrotherapy for Overall Health and Wellness

Regardless of your age and activity level, hydrotherapy can make a meaningful positive impact on your overall health and wellness. With a portable hot tub at home, you can achieve these benefits in the privacy of your own backyard. In addition to the many physical benefits, hydro massage allows you to slow down, meditate, and relax your body.

Believe it or not, hydrotherapy can even be used to treat emotional health. Soaking in warm water can relieve stress, anxiety, and can even solve some of the causes of insomnia. Creating a daily home spa routine can help you to feel more tranquil and connected to your life and surroundings.

Hydrotherapy and Hot Tubs

Hydrotherapy can occur in many places including pools, medical centers, and natural hot spring spas. However, one of the most convenient ways to enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy is with a personal hot tub or spa. With modern spa technology advancements, you can even enjoy a highly customized, targeted massage and that can all happen in the privacy of your own backyard.

When selecting a spa specifically for hydrotherapy, look for models that offer highly customizable massaging jet systems. Bullfrog Spas’ patented JetPak Therapy System offers 16 different massages, each bioengineered to target specific muscle groups based on your needs and preferences. JetPaks are modular jetted spa seats that can be interchanged at any time. JetPaks also allow you to easily adjust the intensity of each massage to fit your specific hydromassage needs.

Check out Bullfrog SpaDesign customization tool and get started on your path to health and wellness today.

*CANDIDO JACUZZI, 83, IS DEAD. New York Times. Retrieved August 20, 2015 from: http://www.nytimes.com/1986/10/10/obituaries/candido-jacuzzi-83-is-dead-inventor-of-whirpool-bath.html

**Candido Jacuzzi. In Wikipedia. Retrieved August 20, 2015 from: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Candido_Jacuzzi

**Quill, Scott. (2007, Jan-Feb). Reduce soreness by 40 percent. Men’s Health, 22, 46.