Whirlpool Bath

Water Temperature: Cold 18–24°C, Neutral 32–36°C.
Duration: 15 minutes
Procedure: The water revolves in a big well–type tub. When the patient enters the tub he gets a gentle massage by the whirling water. A normal adult with good physique can take this bath with cold water.
Uses: This bath is a powerful stimulant for muscular and circulatory activities. When given with cold water it reduces the temperature of the body, but stimulates perspiration, heart’s activity and other vital functions. Since the cold bath increases the blood pressure, it is not advisable for high blood pressure patients. Because of the increased respiratory movement there will be rigorous fluxion through the brain thereby making the brain more alert and active. The sudden contact of cold water stimulates the activity of the kidneys, liver and peristalsis of the intestines, hence is useful in chronic constipation and disorders of the kidney and liver. Persons emaciated due to deficient absorption of nutrition will benefit as this increases the appetite as well as the digestion and assimilation of food. It may be given after giving hot applications like steam bath, sun bath, sauna bath etc. for a short duration.

Underwater Pressure Bath

This is the latest addition to hydrotherapeutics. By this application, the body gets influenced not only with the temperature of the water, but also by the percussion movement, which is made on the periphery with a strong water jet. In fact this is the combination of two treatments, viz., general immersion bath and massage.
Water temperature: Cold 18–24°C. or Neutral 32–36°C.
Duration: 15 minutes.
Procedure: This treatment is given in a specially fabricated tub with an attached jet pipe. In case of neutral underwater massage, the patient drinks one or two glasses of cold water before the treatment. The patient is subjected to gentle vibration of the water and later a jet spray is directed over his back and front. A short cold shower is given to the head after the neutral underwater massage. The patient is advised to relax for 30–40 minutes.
Uses: Cold underwater massage is helpful in stimulating the activity of the skin by diversion of circulation to the peripheral blood vessels. The excess heat in the muscles is absorbed and the muscles are toned up. Hence, it is useful in strengthening muscles whenever there is atony.

In cases of Paralysis, Poliomyelitis and Paraplegia cold underwater massage is a valuable treatment. It not only stimulates the activity of the skin, but also the entire nervous system (because of its strong reaction on the nerve ends). Hence, this is useful in all types of neuralgias. The cold underwater massage stimulates the digestive activity and increases the production of gastric juices. Hence, it is useful for patients suffering from loss of appetite due to deficient secretion of gastric juices.

The neutral underwater massage at 32 to 36°C is a relaxing treatment, especially after rigorous physical activity such as exercises, walking etc. After participation in sports and games, this treatment relaxes the tired muscles. It is also useful in cases of Insomnia and helps to tone up muscular and nervous systems. In cases of Spondylosis, Sciatica, Arthritis, Scoliosis and other disorders of the bones and joints, neutral underwater massage is useful.