Balneotherapy is a form of hydrotherapy where the patient submerges in either cold or hot water containing minerals that are recipes for healing. This type of therapy associates the use of massage therapy to improve its healing benefits as well as to give the patient a relaxing experience while enjoying the soothing water therapy.

Although the hydrotherapy is commonly practiced in Japan and in most countries of Europe, it still is quite popular all around the world. The therapy is mostly used on hot springs although cold water is also used to treat certain conditions. The use of springs in this type of therapy is essential as these natural wonders are enriched in minerals that are necessary in assisting the healing process of the therapy. Magnesium, calcium, sodium, arsenic, manganese, potassium, bromine, and iodine are present in the waters of hot springs. The therapist can also use herbs or essential oils to help improve the benefits and effects of the therapy to the body of the client.

During the massage therapy, the patient’s body is almost submerged in the water. The head of the patient is cushioned and comfortably lying on an elevated part of the tub. This is to avoid drowning and also to allow the client to relax and perhaps fall asleep during the therapy. The massage therapist then manipulates a massage type to help stimulate the body and improve the health. It can either be shiatsu, Swedish massage, acupressure or any type of massage therapy that can be used on the patient. The therapy is developed for the treatment of common ailments and medical conditions including arthritis, fibromyalgia, skin conditions, muscle pain, and many more.

The therapy shows potential not only in relaxing the mind and body during and after the therapy session, but it is also seen in significantly improving the condition of the patient with regular sessions. There are several studies and tests conducted using the Balneotherapy on patients with various conditions which gave out positive results after months of regular sessions of this therapy. The technique revolves around the use of mineral rich water which means that the choice for the massage type is not an issue but somehow a preference depending on the health case of the patient.

However, as a common rule when it comes to the therapies used as an alternative medical care, the consultation and discussion of the patient with his or her doctor is a must to avoid situations where instead of benefiting from the therapy, the current condition is worsened by the supposedly treatment. Aside from the benefits of Balneotherapy, it also has risks and contraindications with certain conditions of the patient. People with conditions such as fever, anemia, high blood pressure, congestive heart failure, and liver, kidney or circulatory problems should not try this therapy or should at least talk to their doctor. Pregnant women are also advised not to try this therapy as their natural treatment for certain conditions or as a luxurious method of relieving stress and fatigue. Patients with cancer and tumors should also stay away from Balneotherapy.

Author Bio: I write for TIR Massage Stone about hot stone massage techniques and hot stone massage products.

Category: Wellness, Fitness and Diet
Keywords: hot stone massage rocks