A hydrotherapy treatment combines the use of warm and cold water to invigorate, restore and relax the body and perhaps it would be correct to say that a ‘hydro spa’ is another term for the facilities needed to enjoy this type of therapy.
These water treatments are without doubt hugely popular and are found in a majority of the larger luxury spas, whether day spas, hotel spas or retreats.
However, modern jargon has captured the expression ‘hydro spa’ and used it to describe hot tubs, Jacuzzis (in fact a trade name), hydrotherapy pools, hydro massage baths, whirlpool tubs and many other similar titles.
Hydro Spas
In essence these are a tub or pool, large enough to seat one or more people.
Filled with warm, often mineral or aromatherapy rich water, pulsating streams of water are pumped from multiple jets located along the sides and base of the tub.
Aimed at key body areas these pressured jets gently massage aching or tense muscles whilst the user relaxes in the warm ambience of the pool.
There are many variations on the theme. Some incorporate mood lighting that helps to further relax the user, whilst others incorporate a waterfalls or similar features and water jet loungers for an all-over hydrotherapy massage.
Hippocrates, A Spa Fan
The ancient Greek philosopher, Hippocrates, said to be the father of medicine, was the first to extol the virtues of the hydro pool.
He believed that warming baths and cold water plunges were an effective way of maintaining fitness.
Today hydro spas are recognized as being effective in providing relief from the symptoms of rheumatism and arthritis.
They are also widely used to assist in the recovery of sporting related injuries as well as providing therapeutic relaxation and rejuvenating relief for stress and general fatigue.
