Hydrotherapie

Hydrotherapie, or hydrotherapy, is the use of water in its various forms for healing, symptom relief, and rehabilitation. It includes balneotherapy, which uses mineral or thermal waters, and aquatic therapy, in which exercises or treatments are performed in a pool or tank. Other water-based techniques include immersion baths, showers, jets, and contrast applications of hot and cold water.

The therapeutic effects rely on physical properties of water. Buoyancy reduces joint loading; hydrostatic pressure can aid venous return and edema reduction; immersion and temperature influence circulation and muscle tone; and water massage provides mechanical stimulation. Mineral content in balneotherapy may contribute chemical effects, though evidence for these is variable.

Indications include musculoskeletal pain and stiffness (for example osteoarthritis and low back pain), rheumatic diseases, postoperative or sport-related rehabilitation, edema management, and certain skin or wound conditions when treated by professionals. In many settings, hydrotherapy is used as an adjunct to conventional care or as part of physiotherapy or spa programs.

Safety and evidence: results vary by modality and condition; hydrotherapy is generally an adjunct rather than a stand-alone treatment. Contraindications include unstable cardiovascular disease, acute infection or wounds, and pregnancy in some cases. Public pools require hygienic safeguards to prevent infection, and therapy should be conducted by trained professionals.

Historically, hydrotherapy has roots in ancient spa cultures and evolved into modern balneology and aquatic therapy, with applications in rehabilitation, medicine, and wellness across many countries.