Underwater shower-massage: indications and contraindications. Underwater hydromassage - an elixir of health, youth and beauty

The healing properties of ordinary water have long been used both in folk methods and in quite modern medical procedures. The human body is almost 70% composed of this substance, which is involved in all biochemical and physiological processes without exception. Therefore, in any disease, first of all, there is a violation of water-electrolyte metabolism, which is a triggering factor for other pathological mechanisms.

The body needs a constant supply of water not only inside, but also its external impact. Of course, every person noticed that after washing or bathing, he feels much better. This factor has not gone unnoticed in medicine, and water procedures have become one of the important elements of physiotherapy. This direction is called hydrotherapy - treatment with water.

But, through many years of research, it was possible to prove that the simple effect of water procedures is not effective enough. Therefore, it was decided to link together two methods at once - therapeutic baths and massage. This combination allowed not only to improve the results of treatment, but also to significantly expand the range of indications. Thanks to this modification, underwater hydromassage is now widely used in the rehabilitation of almost any disease.

Varieties

Due to the wide dissemination of information about the method, it became necessary to use it at home. Recovery does not always involve procedures in a hospital or sanatorium. Although many people needed this procedure for regular use - for example, to combat chronic pain.

Therefore, there was a division of devices for hydromassage into two separate groups - specialized and home. Accordingly, such dissociation affected the initial qualities of underwater massage apparatuses:

• Specialized products are usually quite large in size - on average, their capacity ranges from 200 to 500 liters. They are multifunctional devices - several procedures can be performed on one device at once. To do this, they are equipped with programming elements, as well as a complex system for setting up and operating the hydromassage system.
• Home baths are known around the world under the common name "jacuzzi", derived from the name of its inventor. Usually such funds have a rather limited volume - up to 200 liters. Due to the built-in and mechanized water supply system, they are able to operate in only one mode. Therefore, their specialized therapeutic use is unacceptable - the Jacuzzi should be used only for preventive purposes.

Despite the separation, the overall effect of hydromassage on the body is always considered as a whole - but its severity already depends on the choice of apparatus.

Therapeutic effect

Before proceeding to describe the effect of the method on the body, it should be characterized from a functional point of view. Only from the outside, hydromassage seems complicated - in fact, its work is based on natural processes. The positive or negative result of treatment depends on their impact on the body:

1. Firstly, a sharp change in pressure (hyperbaric effect) is created in a pool or bath - a person moves from gaseous air to a liquid medium. This influence is primarily transmitted to the musculoskeletal system and skin - and they instantly begin to react.
2. Secondly, a thermal effect is carried out, which is based on the possibility of changing the temperature of the water. Depending on the disease, various modes are selected that will most effectively suppress pathological processes.
3. Thirdly, artificially created flows of water or air carry out a reflex effect on the skin. Therefore, the holes in the pools or bathtubs are not located in a random order, but are directed to certain active points.

In the jacuzzi, the benefits and harms balance each other quite well, which is due to the relatively mild effect of therapeutic factors on the body.

Benefit

The beneficial effects of hydromassage are primarily due to its reflex effect on human skin. It contains a huge variety of nerve endings that instantly respond to changes in the environment. Therefore, their coordinated activation ensures the implementation of the following therapeutic factors:

• Being in water immediately has a positive effect on the functioning of the cardiovascular system - blood pressure decreases, as well as heart rate. Moreover, the impact is mild and does not lead to a sharp drop in these indicators.
• Repetitive irritating stimuli "overload" the nervous system, temporarily distracting it from the pathological focus. Especially the benefits of hydromassage are noticeable in the treatment of pain associated with lesions of the musculoskeletal system.
• The mechanical action of water flows ensures the activation of nerve endings located and deep enough. Therefore, there is a coordinated increase in the tone of large muscle groups. Due to this, a massage effect is created, which determines the improvement of well-being.
• Changes in temperature regimes affect the overall metabolism in the body, accelerating it when the temperature rises, and slowing it down when it decreases. Their correct alternation will also provide a tonic effect, having a beneficial effect on carbohydrate and fat metabolism.

The maximum implementation of these effects is possible only when carrying out procedures in specialized baths equipped with programmable operating modes.

Harm

Incorrect or inadequate conduct of hydromassage can lead to undesirable effects, as a result of which a negative impression will be formed about it. Therefore, it is necessary to indicate some situations that should be avoided during the procedures:

• Often, with a pain syndrome, the thermal regime is incorrectly selected. Such patients are not recommended too abrupt and contrasting changes in temperature, which, on the contrary, serve as provoking factors for pain impulses.
• A similar provision applies to initially too hot or cold water in the pool or bath. There is a sharp reflex effect on the skin, which can not only cause discomfort, but also affect blood pressure.
• Even in the simplest whirlpool, the water or air streams that exit through the jets are regulated in strength. Therefore, you should not immediately turn them on at full power, so as not to cause a sharp effect on the pain center.

If you carry out hydromassage procedures consistently and according to the instructions, then you can not be afraid of any of their harmful effects on the body.

Hydromassage

Jacuzzi is considered only a prophylactic to eliminate functional and transient disorders - fatigue, drowsiness or weakness. But specialized hydromassage is already a medical procedure prescribed by a doctor. The following features distinguish it from a home jacuzzi:

• The number and type of procedures is determined only by the attending physician. His choice is based on the need to eliminate specific pathological factors left after the disease.
• If hydromassage is prescribed for preventive purposes, then its use is also carried out according to a specific plan.
• The technique is carried out only in specialized institutions involved in rehabilitation - institutes of physiotherapy, resorts or sanatoriums.
• To perform hydromassage, only certified multifunctional devices are used. According to the doctor's prescription, they strictly determine the time and mode of treatment.
• All procedures are supervised by medical personnel who are responsible for the safety of the patient.

Before prescribing a water massage, the doctor first of all evaluates the indications, as well as the possible risks associated with its implementation.

Indications

The main scope of the method is the complex treatment of the pathology of the musculoskeletal system, as well as functional diseases of the nervous system. Therefore, it will be effective against the following diseases and conditions:

1. Degenerative diseases of the joints and spine, accompanied by pain - and osteochondrosis.
2. Pathology of periarticular soft tissues - and tendonitis, bursitis, and fasciitis.
3. Rehabilitation after severe injuries - fractures, dislocations, torn ligaments. The method not only eliminates residual pain, but also speeds up the recovery process.
4. Functional neurological disorders - neurosis, nervous tic, phantom pain.
5. Overweight or obesity.
6. Functional disorders in the digestive system - irritable bowel syndrome, biliary dyskinesia.
7. Pathology of the cardiovascular system is not complicated hypertension.
8. Chronic or frequently recurrent respiratory infections.

Also, hydromassage can sometimes be used for some other diseases, if its appointment will be beneficial and will not bring negative consequences.

Contraindications

In some cases, the procedure is required to be abandoned so as not to expose the patient's health to a possible risk. Therefore, it is contraindicated in the following situations:

• During pregnancy, since the reflex effect of water flows, as well as temperature changes on the state of the mother and fetus, has not been studied.
• With any acute diseases (primarily infectious and cardiovascular), accompanied by a general deterioration in the patient's condition.
• Urolithiasis or cholelithiasis, as mechanical and reflex effects can cause a sudden attack of colic.
• With open wounds or active inflammatory processes on the skin, since the action of non-disinfected water can adversely affect their healing.

The contraindications indicated for hydromassage are usually temporary - in some cases, after stabilization of the condition, the procedure can be performed. But still, in such patients, the use of regimens with a pronounced reflex effect is excluded.

Thinking of buying a hot tub but don't know where to start? Just the other day, we were asked if there is any benefit from a hot tub, or is it entertainment and nothing more? In this article, we will answer this and other questions. By the way, thanks for asking. A very interesting topic.

A little history

This story happened over 70 years ago. In 1943, Candido (an Italian-American) fell ill with his youngest son, Kenneth. Doctors discovered that Kenneth had a serious form of rheumatoid arthritis and, among other things, prescribed hydrotherapy sessions for him. In the process of treatment, Candido noticed that monthly hydrotherapy sessions in the hospital significantly alleviated the symptoms of his son's illness.

Candido was not just a loving, caring father, but also an engineer and one of the founders of a well-known American company that manufactures aircraft engines and fuel pumps. After a series of studies, in 1956 he developed a special compact pump, thanks to which hydrotherapy could be carried out not in a hospital, but at home. And already in 1968, his nephew Roy, based on this invention, developed a bathtub with built-in nozzles and a pump. So, as a result of paternal care, hot tubs appeared. By the way, the last name of Candido, Kenneth and Roy was ... Jacuzzi.

Incidentally, some people refer to hot tubs as whirlpool tubs, regardless of manufacturer.

Briefly about the types of massage

The benefits of massage come from the correct ergonomics of the bath bowl and the correct placement of the jets. The bath should be comfortable and comfortable so that you can relax as much as possible while lying in it. The nozzles must be located in the right place and release water at the right angle and with the required intensity. Only then is the therapeutic effect achieved, and not “bul-bul-bul, the water began to boil.”

So you want to buy a hot tub

If you seriously decide to buy a hot tub, then we will convince you that you should know a few things:

• Before buying a hot tub, check with your doctor. Contraindications and harm from hydromassage are no less than benefits: tuberculosis, thrombosis, skin diseases and infections, urolithiasis, hypertension and much more. Even if it seems to you that you are not sick with anything, it is better to play it safe and go.
• Clean the tub promptly and conscientiously before and after each use, and at regular intervals. Where there is water and hard-to-reach areas, bacteria, fungus and other bad guys always appear there. Firstly, during a water massage, the water will forcefully throw them at you (provoking diseases of the skin and urinary tract). Secondly, when breathing along with hot steam, they can get into the lungs and, hello, pneumonia. If you have children, the danger is multiplied by two.

Advice! Choose bathtubs with a built-in disinfection system and turn it on regularly. This will reduce the chance of germs getting inside the tub and save you a lot of time when cleaning.

• We interviewed people who had previously bought a hot tub, and found out: the bath was used as often as possible immediately after purchase, and then the frequency of using the hot tub declined and reached 0 within a year. If you're not planning a bath for treatment or ongoing skin care, then consider whether it makes sense to overpay significantly and sign up for regular spending of your personal cleaning time (or cleaning lady money). Perhaps the use of a hot tub in a SPA center will be easier and more economical.

During the survey, we heard an excellent phrase: “first, you need to immediately buy a cleaning lady for the hot tub.”

• If you choose a bath exclusively for parties, champagne and fun, then we are very jealous of you and recommend buying either a bath. Such baths seethe beautifully and powerfully, it is convenient to lie in them for two or three, indulge in hedonism and carelessness.
• A number of hot tubs don't like it when people use bubble baths and bath salts. They wither and eventually break. Just keep in mind.

Have you changed your mind yet? Good. Then something else

If in a store or on a website they tell you that this bath has the most powerful equipment, is equipped with the strongest compressor for a powerful massage, then ask yourself: is such a massage useful? What does the manufacturer think about in the first place, releasing such bathtubs? Most likely he is thinking about how to surpass his competitors by creating a separate niche of “powerful baths”, and he definitely does not think about your health (however, this is the most for parties).

Advice! If you rent out an apartment, then buying a hot tub increases the cost of rent quite well.

If you're looking for an inexpensive "just to try" hot tub, not for therapy, chances are it's performance has been cut at the expense of price. Ask yourself: is it worth taking something that has practically no positive effect on the body? Is it worth buying a thing that you will take care of more often than enjoy? It is not so rare that people bought a massage bath and realized that after 2-3 massage sessions it becomes uninteresting.

Important information!

Before we tell you about the benefits of a hot tub, here are a few things to remember:

• Do not treat the following text with 100% confidence and do not self-medicate based on it. The most accurate indications for the use of water massage will be told to you only by a doctor, and not by the Internet.
• Always always! read the instructions for using the bath, the duration of the procedures and other accompanying literature. The manufacturer knowingly puts it together with the bathroom.

The impact of massage on the human body

In the human body, it is customary to distinguish 12 systems. Let's take a look at how massage in the bathroom affects each of them.

1. Central nervous system

• Autumn-spring depression and high psychological stress at work or while studying are common. Subsequently, they cause insomnia, nervous breakdowns, contribute to a decrease in mental activity and the development of various chronic diseases in the long term. A massage bath will help you calm down after a hard day's work and get back to normal. Especially when combined with aromatherapy.

Advice! For the most effective effect, the water temperature should be equal to body temperature.

• Underwater massage is indicated for chronic fatigue syndrome and menopause.

2. Respiratory system

• (no direct impact)

3. Circulatory system

• Hydromassage has a strengthening effect on the walls of blood vessels, helps them restore their elasticity, improves venous blood circulation and, due to this, activates the work of the heart. Indications for hydromassage may be venous insufficiency and varicose veins.
• Hydromassage relieves swelling due to impaired venous circulation.

4. The system of hematopoietic organs

• (no direct impact)

5. Digestive system

• Hydromassage can be helpful for bowel dysfunction.

6. Urinary system and skin

• Air massage (aeromassage) effectively affects human skin, improves its tone and helps fight "orange peel" and cellulite.
• Hydromassage gently exfoliates the skin and removes dead cells.

7. Reproductive system

• (no direct impact)

8. Endocrine system

• Hydromassage procedures improve the functioning of the thyroid gland and adrenal glands.
• Whirlpool massage can be useful for obesity as it activates fat burning, but it does not negate a hypoglycemic diet and exercise, and don't get your hopes up!

9. Musculoskeletal system

• Hydromassage has a tonic and relaxing effect on the muscles, improves their trophism, increases joint mobility, relieves accumulated heaviness and reduces the tendency to spasms.
• Air massage (air massage) can be used as a rehabilitation therapy after fractures and muscle ruptures. Just do not lie down in the bath until the plaster has been removed from you.

10. Lymphatic system

• Along with improving venous blood flow, hydromassage activates the lymphatic system.

Massages have long been used for the prevention and treatment of many diseases. There are many different manual practices. Among them, hydromassage should be highlighted. This is a unique treatment based on the healing effect of water, air bubbles and gentle pressure on the tissues of the human body.

Whirlpool baths can be a real salvation for diseases of the nervous system, musculoskeletal system, severe fatigue or stress. They perfectly tone the skin, relax, soothe. However, hydro and air massage also have contraindications. What are the benefits and harms of a hot tub?

Hydrotherapy has been used to treat certain ailments for centuries. In modern medical practice, some water procedures are also used to alleviate the condition of patients.

Massage with water-air mixture is very effective as a therapeutic procedure. It is widely used in salons and medical institutions where hydrotherapy is practiced.

Hydromassage as we know it “officially” appeared in 1968, when a commercial license was obtained for a therapeutic bath.

The hot tub was created by Candido Jacuzzi and named after him. She helped relieve the condition of a family member who suffered from arthritis. Since the middle of the 20th century, home hydrotherapy has been highly valued by many people, and baths with such features have become very popular.

Hydromassage remains one of the most accessible non-pharmacological means to help improve the condition of people with diseases of the musculoskeletal system. After the procedures in the hot tub, pain in the back and joints disappears, blood and lymph circulation improves. Hydromassage is indicated for osteochondrosis, arthritis, arthrosis and many other diseases

With hydromassage, jets of water mixed with air bubbles exert intense pressure on certain areas of the body. Water is ejected with force from special nozzles located in different zones of the bath. Direction and intensity of air-water flows can be adjusted.

Depending on the selected mode, you can take water procedures with jet or bubble massage. The first is designed to affect tired muscles, it tones, invigorates.

And the second perfectly relaxes, relieves stress, enhances metabolism. Bubble massage is often prescribed for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, neuroses.

This massage is called pearl massage. air bubbles look like pearls. They occur because the air pump delivers jets of heated air into the water. Bubbles rise to the surface and create the effect of water seething. Bubble massage is successfully used to enhance the effect of aromatic substances and cosmetics.

What are the benefits of water massage?

In a number of physiotherapeutic procedures, water massage is in second place after manual massage. It is almost as effective, and the healing effects of water are added to the benefits of physical pressure. Pain, fatigue, tension in the water are felt much less.

Hydroprocedures are indicated for reduced immunity, injuries, diseases of the musculoskeletal system, nervous, sexual disorders, gastrointestinal diseases, circulatory disorders, and obesity.

Plunging into the bath, a person is in an environment that itself supports him. The state is a bit like weightlessness. Due to this, the body's own weight decreases, and the pressure on the muscles, joints, and spine is reduced.

Even being in the water itself can relieve pain and reduce discomfort, and taking into account the pressure of the jets from the nozzles and improving blood circulation, the effect is enhanced.

Expert commentary on the benefits of hydromassage:

Therapeutic and prophylactic properties

A person feels the benefits of hydromassage already during its implementation. The main thing is to choose the right type of massage, the intensity of the supply of water and air jets, to influence the desired areas of the body. Powerful streams of water stimulate blood and lymph flow. Pleasant warmth is relaxing.

The pores of the skin open up, they wash out impurities that cannot be removed with ordinary bathing - the remnants of sebum, cosmetics, sweat, dust.

Hydromassage is perfect for people with problem skin, because. improves its condition, deeply cleanses without the use of special products. After the physiotherapy, the skin becomes clearer and healthier.

The healing effect of water and air jets is enhanced by the effect of chromotherapy. In addition to aesthetic pleasure, it has a tangible impact on the physical condition of a person. Color treatment has a beneficial effect on the state of the nervous system, gastrointestinal tract.

Chromotherapy affects the iris of the eye, models neural signals and promotes the production of certain hormones, bioactive substances, stimulation of photochemical processes. The effect of chromotherapy is widely used in SPA-salons

Treatment of the spine and joints

A variety of water procedures are used to treat diseases of the spine and joints. Their benefit lies in the ability of water to relieve the burden on diseased organs. By connecting a massage with water-air jets, a person receives a double benefit: his condition is relieved, pain disappears, and due to the stimulation of blood flow, motor functions improve.

Doctors note the effectiveness of hydromassage for spinal hernia - a disease that gives people a lot of discomfort. A pinched nerve root causes severe pain. To release it, various types of spinal traction are used.

The same can be obtained with the help of water massage. It gives better results, and the procedure itself is much more pleasant.

During water massage, the striated muscles are relaxed, due to which spasms disappear. The walls of blood vessels expand, blood circulation is stimulated, the work of venous valves improves, tissues are saturated with oxygen. This helps to alleviate the condition of the patient with intervertebral hernia.

Hydromassage cannot cure the disease itself, but it reduces the load on the diseased intervertebral disc and inhibits its further destruction.

Water treatments help relieve inflammation, which in turn relieves pain and reduces swelling. Natural regenerative processes are accelerated.

Positive effect on the nervous system

Hydrotherapy has long been used for diseases of the central and peripheral nervous system. It gives good results in eliminating the consequences of spinal cord injuries, neuritis, radiculitis, neurocirculatory dystonia.

An ordinary hot tub cannot replace a doctor, but it can be a good adjuvant in the treatment of many diseases.

Relaxing in warm water under powerful jets, a person experiences bliss, endorphins enter the bloodstream. This is an effective way to deal with stress, chronic fatigue, nervousness, irritability. The languor that people experience after a massage session helps them fall asleep soundly.

If hydromassage is supplemented with chromo- and aromatherapeutic agents, considerable results can be achieved in the fight against fatigue, sleep disorders, mental and physical stress.

Hydrotherapy in body shaping programs

Intensive stimulation of blood circulation helps to remove excess fluid from the body. Thanks to this, hydromassage helps to relieve swelling, cleanse toxins and toxins. Such properties of hydrotherapy are valuable for people with overweight, cosmetic problems.

Losing weight, getting rid of toxins and cosmetic problems, a person simultaneously experiences very pleasant sensations. This has made hydromassage extremely popular in salons and clinics, and it has been included in many weight loss, figure shaping, and skin care programs.

Water massage is even credited with a rejuvenating effect. It is achieved by restoring the water balance of the skin. Natural hydration helps to improve its condition

Various types of massages are widely used to combat cellulite. During the impact on the body of powerful jets of water, fats are broken down, muscle tone improves. This helps to model the figure and remove the "orange peel" on the hips, buttocks, and abdomen.

Hydromassage kneads cellulite bumps, “breaks” them and smoothes the skin. At the same time, the weight is reduced and the figure is corrected.

Water massage is much more pleasant than the classic anti-cellulite massage, its effect is deeper, but at the same time very gentle. In many programs to get rid of cellulite, he replaced cupping procedures. An expert will tell you more:

Contraindications to hydromassage procedures

• Diseases in acute stages. Hydromassage cannot be used for any diseases in acute forms - inflammatory, infectious, etc. It can worsen the condition of the patient, so it is necessary to consult a doctor. When the period of exacerbation passes, you can enjoy the hot tubs.
• Thrombosis. A powerful impact of water flows can provoke a blood clot, so hydroprocedures should not be performed without the permission of a doctor. At the same time, they are effective in preventing the appearance of blood clots and varicose veins.
• Cardiovascular disease, bleeding. Hydromassage is categorically contraindicated in case of heart attacks, ischemic disease, hypertension, some other diseases, bleeding. If there are problems with the heart and blood vessels, consultation with a cardiologist is required.
• Oncology. Many types of massages are contraindicated in cancer patients.
• Skin infections. During the procedures, water penetrates deep into the pores of the skin, which can be unsafe for infectious diseases. The benefits and harms of a hot tub for the skin should be objectively assessed.
• Some diseases of the genitourinary system. Hydromassage has a strong effect on the internal organs. This is highly undesirable for urolithiasis.
• Pregnancy and lactation. Pregnant and lactating women should be very careful when taking hot tubs so as not to provoke health problems and the threat of miscarriage.

On the feet is a large number of biologically active points associated with all organs and systems. Thanks to this, procedures strengthen the immune system and serve as a good prophylactic. However, hydromassage can be dangerous for thrombosis and varicose veins.

How to use the hydromassage equipment?

The hot tub is a bathing tank and special equipment. All this is enclosed in one common case, on which a control panel is provided. At the bottom and side walls there are nozzles for supplying an air-water mixture.

Their number, placement and type depend on the functions and available modes of the whirlpool equipment. Each nozzle delivers a stream of water in one direction, and the jet speed depends on the selected mode. To prevent water from flowing back, the nozzles are equipped with valves.

Water is supplied by an electric pump. He pumps her out of the bath and throws her back under pressure. The electric pump is the main control unit of the hot tub. The price of the bath and its functionality depend on its power and performance.

A compressor is used to mix the jets of water with air. Water-air massage is available in models with the "turbo-pool" function. A separate type of procedure is air massage (pearl). It is carried out using jets of air supplied to the water. Usually nozzles on the bottom are used for this.

The number of options for a hot tub can be any. The more of them, the more expensive the model. When choosing, it is advisable to try out different types of hydromassage in order to buy exactly the model that provides the necessary functions. Additionally, the bath can be equipped with:

• equipment for chromo-, aromatherapy;
• acoustic systems;
• remote control;
• pressure and/or water temperature control;
• automatic cleaning and disinfection system;
• drying system.

As for design, there are models of various shapes and sizes. For those who find it difficult to step over a high side, you can purchase a medical model. This is ideal for the elderly, as well as injured people with joint problems.

The market for hydromassage equipment is vast. Each buyer can find a bath with the desired types of massage. The whole question is in the price. You should choose taking into account the benefits and possible harm of a hot tub.

If the budget allows, it is better to give preference to imported models. A great option is to buy a combined shower stall, where the functions of a bathtub are performed by a deep tray. Such plumbing is equipped with several types of hydromassage - shower and underwater.

Hydromassage is a massage of the body with a stream of water supplied under pressure. The principle of hydromassage is based on the therapeutic effect of pressure, temperature and the chemical composition of the water flow on the human body. Air is often introduced into the water flow and bubbles form. Water can be mineral or plain. Hydromassage helps to improve blood circulation, relax muscles, relieve muscle pain and tension.

With the help of medical research, it has been established that water massage accelerates metabolic reactions in the body. Massage with a water jet does not injure the surface of the body and causes pleasant sensations in a person. With this massage, the flow of blood and lymph through the vessels is accelerated. Hydromassage also has an analgesic effect on muscle pain and inflammation of the joints, and has a relaxing effect on the nervous system. Muscle tone is increased. Hydromassage helps to remove excess fat in the thighs and abdomen, get rid of the manifestations of cellulite. Just a few water massage procedures will allow you to get rid of extra pounds.

History of hydromassage

Water procedures were used for healing in ancient Greece and Rome and are described in the writings of Hippocrates. The upper strata of Roman society and free citizens enjoyed hot and cold water treatments and massages at the baths.

French neurologist Jean Martin Charcot created a procedure based on the contrast effect of water jets supplied under pressure to the required areas of the body from a distance of 3 meters. Charcot's shower helps to cope with cellulite, rheumatism, arthritis, arthrosis, eliminate excess fat from the abdomen, improve metabolism, relieve stress and reduce pain. Charcot's shower cannot be used at home; this balneological procedure is carried out under the supervision of a doctor in clinics and sanatoriums.

The first hot tub was created by Candido Jacuzzi in the 20th century to treat diseases of the musculoskeletal system. It was quite primitive - the pump supplied air to the bath and bubbles formed. Technology has advanced over the decades and now Jacuzzi creates high-tech hot tubs and is a trendsetter in the spa industry.

In the past, hydromassage was only available to the very wealthy. But now people with low incomes can afford such a pleasure. Many holiday homes and spas have water massages in their range of services. What are the benefits of water massage?

The benefits of hydromassage

Such a powerful factor as the pressure of a jet of water has a healing effect on the human body. A person sits in a bath with water, the temperature of which is 35-37 degrees. Before the start of the hydromassage, a person needs to be in the bath for several minutes so that the muscles relax. Then a jet of water is sent to the body. You can carry out the procedure of water massage every other day or every day. Hydromassage can last 15-30 minutes, the course requires only 15-20 procedures.

Hydromassage is useful in the treatment of many diseases:

• weakened immunity,
• arthritis,
• diseases of the musculoskeletal system,
• sports injuries, muscle pain (krepatura),
• insomnia, depression,
• vegetative dystonia,
• spondylosis,
• diseases of the gastrointestinal tract,
• lupus,
• obesity, cellulite,
• erectile dysfunction,
• chronic fatigue syndrome and many other ailments.

For a better understanding of the healing effect of hydromassage, let's look at all its positive aspects in order.

1. Water massage significantly improves sleep.

In our time of continuous stress, a person is in constant mental stress. As a result, each of us often feels chronic fatigue, irritability and emotional instability. Well, what kind of healthy and sound sleep can there be in such a state? As a result, chronic sleep deprivation further exacerbates poor health. In such situations, hydromassage allows you to relax tense muscles, calm the nervous system, stabilize breathing and heart rate. Hydromassage smoothly prepares a person for a sound, deep and full sleep.

2. Hydromassage improves the color and condition of the skin.

Poor quality food, air pollution, excessive exposure to the sun significantly accelerate the natural process of skin aging and the appearance of wrinkles. the site recommends regular hydromassage procedures, and then a lot can be corrected. Water massage expands the capillaries of the skin, thereby improving the supply of essential nutrients, and accelerates the removal of harmful elements. As a result of such processes, the skin is moisturized, becomes elastic and radiant, its color improves.

3. Hydromassage reduces chronic pain.

Many of us are familiar with situations in which something constantly hurts or aches. This is the result of long-past injuries or illnesses. And here, too, water massage can come to the rescue. The fact is that from the effect of hydromassage there is an increased release of endorphins in the human brain. Endorphins have an analgesic, sedative, that is, a calming effect. Thus, you can do without expensive and far from harmless painkillers. In addition to the effect of anesthesia, water massage contributes to a faster cure for chronic diseases.

4. Water massage normalizes blood circulation.

If a person is very tired physically or mentally, then it is difficult for him to relax, his muscles seem to be in constant tension. An overly tense muscle is like a compressed sponge, meaning it cannot let in or retain much fluid. For this reason, blood circulation deteriorates significantly, and the load on the heart increases greatly. But after the adoption of hydromassage procedures, the compressed muscles are released and contribute to a faster advancement of venous blood to the heart. The better blood circulation, the more oxygen, nutrients, energy all human organs will receive. Also, residual products will be removed from the cells at a faster rate.

5. Hydromassage strengthens the immune system.

The main role in the prevention of inflammation is the lymphatic system. Most people lead a sedentary lifestyle. This is one of the reasons for the sluggish flow of lymph and, as a result, weak immunity. Water massage not only improves blood circulation, but also increases the circulation of lymph flow. Therefore, it is easier for the body to fight inflammatory processes, and wounds heal faster. In general, a person has a more stable immunity.

To summarize, we can say that hydromassage makes us more resistant to various stressful situations at work and at home. It helps to get rid of chronic pain, increase immunity, normalize sleep, and improve overall health.

You can do the procedure of water massage in your bath. Of course, you will not have the necessary pressure of a water jet, but in any case, water procedures will help relieve stress and improve well-being.

Contraindications

Before the hydromassage procedure, it is advisable to consult with your doctor. Among the contraindications for hydromassage, it should be noted: thrombosis, thrombophlebitis, tuberculosis, hemorrhages, benign and malignant tumors, hypertension of the 3rd degree, urolithiasis, skin inflammations and infections, myocardial infarction and coronary heart disease.

Massage with a directed flow of water has a relaxing and regenerating effect. It is used to tone and improve the whole body. If you want to use water procedures, you need to find out what are the benefits and harms of hydromassage for health.

What is hydromassage

Hydromassage is a directional effect of water flows on the human body. This treatment combines the beneficial effects of water and massage. A person is immersed in a liquid at a comfortable temperature, and its flows with air bubbles affect the skin and muscles, providing a relaxing effect. Currently, hydromassage is included in the complex therapy of disorders of the musculoskeletal system, nervous system, metabolism, and obesity.

Types of hydromassage

In medicine and cosmetology, various types of hydromassage are used depending on the patient's condition, which needs to be corrected. Underwater shower massage is often used for diseases of the musculoskeletal system, and Charcot shower - for obesity and cellulite.

Underwater shower massage

It is used to reduce excess weight, correct the excitability of the nervous system, eliminate edema, and treat the effects of injuries. A person is immersed in a bath with a water temperature of 37 ° C, then alternated with a colder one.

To get the result, you need to go through 20-25 sessions of such dives. Water stimulates blood circulation, improves tissue nutrition, accelerates their regeneration.

shower massage

This type of therapy is used for injuries of the musculoskeletal system. Can be used after plaster removal. For several days, massage the skin around the injured area and only then the site of the bruise. Movement should be light, vibrating. Soft tissues are kneaded for 15 minutes.

Also, shower-massage is used in cosmetology to combat cellulite, increase skin tone, and improve body relief.

Whirlpool underwater hydromassage

This procedure takes place in a bath, where special vortex flows are created. They improve blood circulation, metabolism, relax, relieve stress. The benefits of hydromassage in the pool are also significant. The duration of the procedure is up to half an hour.

Sharko shower

It is used only after a doctor's prescription. From a distance of 3 m, the patient is exposed to a powerful stream of contrast temperature. The impact starts from the feet. Such hydromassage improves blood circulation and metabolism. Experts note the effectiveness and benefits of hydromassage for weight loss. Observe an improvement in the state of the body with high physical exertion. May harm people with venous insufficiency.

Important! Massaging with a Charcot shower is harmful to spend more than 15 minutes.

A Charcot shower can be fan-shaped, when water is sprayed with a special nozzle, and Scottish - this is an alternation of jets of different temperatures.

Healing properties of hydromassage

Hydromassage was first used in the 20th century to restore patients after injuries. Doctors noted its benefits: in patients who took such baths, edema quickly disappeared, sleep returned to normal, and the condition of the skin improved. The beneficial properties of hydromassage have made it one of the most popular therapeutic hydro-procedures. It is used in the complex therapy of many chronic diseases.

It highlights its useful properties:

• removal of muscle spasm, restoration of motor function;
• restoration of mobility of injured joints;
• promotes fusion of torn ligaments and fractures;
• improvement of metabolism and digestive function, stimulation of blood circulation;
• promotes weight loss, reduces the appearance of cellulite.

After a hydromassage session, a surge of strength and energy is observed, while sleep improves. Using diets for weight loss in combination with hydrotherapy, you can get rid of the inevitable sagging of the skin and improve its condition.

Does hydromassage help you lose weight?

Hydromassage will not help burn fat, but will only improve blood flow and metabolism, which will contribute to weight loss. The flow of fluid, acting on the skin, enhances the outflow of lymph, relieving swelling. The relaxing properties of the warm massage fluid are used to relieve stress and tension. The tone of the whole organism and the skin, in particular, increases. It is smoothed and cleansed. The acceleration of metabolism contributes to the removal of toxins and the breakdown of fats.

Hydromassage against cellulite

To combat cellulite, hot tubs are used that can release quite powerful vortex flows. At the beginning of the dive, a person simply relaxes in warm water. After a few minutes, the impact of water flows on problem areas begins. Basically it is the hips, buttocks, legs.

The main useful property of such an impact is the absence of pain and bruising, as with manual massaging. The second useful property is complete relaxation and removal of fatigue.

The benefits of hydromassage for children

Water diving for children is prescribed for various developmental pathologies and injuries:

• neuralgia;
• dislocations of the joints;
• rachiocampsis;
• decreased muscle tone;
• diseases of the nervous system and organs of the gastrointestinal tract.

It is useful to conduct a hydromassage session 3 months after birth, earlier it is harmful. The decision to use hydrotherapy is made by the attending pediatrician. Only he can appreciate the benefits of hydromassage for the health of the child.

Treatment is carried out in medical institutions under the supervision of relevant specialists, if the child has injuries, pathologies. At home, massaging with water can be done for any healthy child for several minutes a day. Hydromassage has a relaxing and calming effect on his nervous system, improves sleep. Such sessions of hydrotherapy will not bring harm.

Benefits of foot massage

All the weight and burden of the day's work falls on the feet. By evening, they tend to swell and hurt. Hydromassage can be an effective and useful remedy for the treatment of leg diseases. Its beneficial, relaxing properties relieve fatigue and are effective for lovers of high heels.

By acting on biologically active points on the feet, massaging with water heals not only the legs, but also the internal organs, strengthens the immune system. At home, useful spa treatments for the legs are done with the help of a hot tub, which will definitely not harm. It is important to read the instructions before using the device so as not to harm yourself.

Acting on the legs, water jets relax the ligaments and muscles, relieve pain. After 20 minutes, swelling disappears, blood and lymph circulation improves. The walls of blood vessels become stronger, fatigue disappears.

Indications for hydromassage

Treatment and massaging with water is beneficial in the treatment of chronic diseases. These can be pathologies of internal organs and cosmetic defects.

Hydromassage is useful for such problems:

• disorders of the nervous system;
• chronic fatigue syndrome;
• limb edema and post-traumatic edema;
• muscle weakness and skin laxity;
• dysfunction of internal organs, in particular the intestines;
• organism intoxication
• heavy physical activity;
• early or complicated menopause.

As an additional remedy, it is used for people with disorders of the musculoskeletal system. The calming and relaxing properties of warm water are used to treat insomnia and increase the body's resistance to stress. It should be noted that only the attending physician can evaluate the benefits and harms of hot tubs in each individual case. In serious illnesses, it is important not to cause harm.

Features and rules of the procedure

A hydromassage session is carried out in a special bath. The person takes a comfortable, physiological position. Small streams of liquid act on every centimeter of the body from the nozzles. They are located on the bottom and walls of the container.

Sea salt and essential oils are added to enhance the benefits. The lower part of the body is under the direct influence of water jets. For maximum effect, regulate the temperature and water pressure.

To benefit, you must follow the following rules:

1. The water temperature should remain within 35–38 °C.
2. The session should not last more than 20 minutes, it is harmful.
3. The pressure is chosen in accordance with the injury.
4. The jet should act on the skin tangentially, and not directly.

A strong pressure is used when massaging the limbs, and a weaker pressure is used when working with the torso.

Important! Hydromassage of the heart, genitals, mammary glands is not recommended.

Hydromassage at home

At home, hydromassage can be done with a shower and a jacuzzi. For a shower, you need to purchase a special nozzle in which you can adjust the pressure. For massage, mono mode is ideal. A powerful jet of water will work well on all problem areas.

At home, with health benefits, a jacuzzi is used. The body is under water, as relaxed as possible. This procedure is good to do in the evening, but not in the morning. It is better for people with diseases of the cardiovascular system and skin lesions to refuse hydromassage. It's unhealthy.

Harm of hydromassage and contraindications to the procedure

The hydrotherapy procedure is carried out only after consultation with the attending physician.

Important! The presence of diseases in the acute stage is a direct contraindication to hydromassage.

What diseases do not use:

• in case of thrombosis, acting with a jet of water, it is possible to provoke a tearing off of a blood clot;
• with diseases of the heart and blood vessels, bleeding, hypertension;
• oncology;
• skin infections, water can provoke their spread;
• urolithiasis, cholelithiasis is a contraindication;
• pregnancy and lactation;
• oncological diseases.

In general, this is useful, but there are also harmful properties. The nozzles of massage baths are difficult to clean, as various microorganisms multiply in them in large quantities. They are harmful: cause infections of the skin and urinary tract.

Conclusion

The benefits and harms of hydromassage appear only after a course of diving. To be carried out after consultation and under the supervision of a specialist. This is not only a harmless cosmetic procedure, but also a serious medical one.