Arthritis, hydrotherapy, water therapy, hydrotherapy from arthritis
the main thrust of hydrotherapy is to rid the body of the toxins that are thought to be causing the joint pain and inflammation. Hydrotherapy treatments are very helpful in managing chronic conditions such as osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
In general, osteoarthritis patients get better results with moist, warm treatments, such as moist heat packs, than with dry applications, such as electric heating pads. Using a warm compress for 10 to 20 minutes every four hours helps relieve stiffness and dull, penetrating pain. Wading, swimming or exercising in a pool heated to 85°F can also be very effective. Make sure that the affected part of the body is immersed in the water.
To treat sharper, more intense pain, use a cold, wet compress or an ice pack wrapped in a plastic bag and placed over a towel on the skin. Use the cold treatment for 10 to 20 minutes every four hours.
Caution:
Never use cold treatments for more than 20 minutes at a time, because they can damage the skin. If pain lessens after using cold treatments for a day or two, switch to hot compresses.
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Colonics are used to wash toxins out of the colon and to stimulate the kidney and other parts of the body.
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Drinking distilled water throughout the day is encouraged to flush toxins out of the body.
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Hot and cold showers to stimulate general circulation and act as a general tonic
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Brief cold showers or baths and massages with cold towels may help to increase the circulation.
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Hot and cold compresses, alternated (locally)
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Saunas, steam rooms or hot baths are used to produce sweating.
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Cold compresses are used to relieve local pain.
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Hot Epsom salts baths or local bath or compress
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Swimming or other water exercise, preferably in a heated pool, can improve joint movement and muscle strength. The water helps support the body and reduce the stress of gravity.
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Paraffin bath (local): 4 parts paraffin, 1 part mineral oil. Heat to 125-130 degree F, or let cool until thin film forms. Dip part repeatedly until 1/4 inch thick, or paint on larger areas. |
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