How Hydrotherapy Can Treat Poor Circulation in Legs

Poor circulation, or peripheral artery disease (PAD), is common with aging, causing muscle pain and cramping in your legs, feet, arms, and hands. While it is not a condition, PAD may be a sign of larger health issues such as diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, or heart disease.

If left untreated, poor circulation can lead to permanent nerve or tissue damage, as well as allow a health condition to worsen.

The good news is you can take proactive steps to improve blood flow to your legs and other extremities. Common treatments include exercising regularly, eating healthier, and quitting smoking. These lifestyle changes work even better when combined with hydrotherapy. In fact, hydrotherapy has been known to speed recovery by reducing swelling and sensitivity to pain.

Below we dive into what hydrotherapy is and how you can increase blood circulation using this therapeutic technique.

What is Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy, formerly known as hydropathy, involves the use of water for pain relief and medical treatment. This practice dates as far back as 4500 BC and continues to be used today in both alternative and mainstream medicine. Cultures around the world still embrace water therapy as a healing experience that promotes relaxation and spiritual and physical wellness.

What are the Types of Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy has evolved greatly since its origin in ancient bathhouses. Today, this practice is provided in external and internal forms, helping to increase poor circulation in your legs and treat other health issues. Common types include:

• Water circuit therapy
• Aquatic exercise
• Aquatic massage
• Steam baths
• Saunas

How Does Hydrotherapy Reduce Pain?

Hydrotherapy relies on the healing properties of water for pain relief, making use of the body’s reaction to hot and cold stimuli. When exposed to hot water, your blood vessels expand, which increases blood flow. Meanwhile, cold water constricts your vessels, which reduces swelling and inflammation. These mechanisms behind hydrotherapy help to improve circulation in your legs and reduce your sensitivity to pain. Watch our video below to learn about Kohler’s hydrotherapy tub technology.

How Long is a Hydrotherapy Session?

The duration of hydrotherapy sessions depends on your condition and individual needs. Sessions with a physical therapist typically last for 30 minutes, whereas practicing hydrotherapy in your own bath may take only 15 minutes to reap the benefits.

How Often Should I Do Hydrotherapy?

Like the duration, the frequency of hydrotherapy sessions also varies based on your condition and specific needs. Some conditions benefit from daily sessions, while others may need only one or 2 sessions a week. If you experience poor circulation in your legs, home hydrotherapy allows you to easily incorporate this self-care practice into your daily routine, ensuring you get the most out of the treatment.

How Can I Do Hydrotherapy at Home?

Today, hydrotherapy can be done at health centers, spas, or at home. For those with poor circulation in their legs who may need hydrotherapy on an ongoing  basis, practicing it at home may be the best solution.

With the KOHLER Walk-In Bath, you can access this special kind of therapy in the privacy and leisure of your own home, as often as you want. Our Walk-In Bath features both whirlpool hydrotherapy jets and BubbleMassage™ air jets to provide relief and relaxation for aches and pains along the legs and back.