Osteoarthritis (OA) is a chronic degenerative joint disease characterized by the deterioration of cartilage and bone in the joints. It is a leading cause of disability and affects hundreds of millions of people worldwide.

Joint pain and stiffness are hallmark symptoms of OA. Hydrotherapy, a form of physical therapy that involves immersion in warm water, is often recommended as a complementary treatment for OA.

Does hydrotherapy alleviate osteoarthritis pain? In this article, we will explore the evidence on the effectiveness of hydrotherapy for OA pain relief.

What is Hydrotherapy?

Hydrotherapy is a form of physical therapy that involves immersing the body in warm water. It is used to treat a wide range of health conditions, including arthritis, fibromyalgia, and spinal cord injuries.

The warmth of the water can help to relax muscles and improve circulation, while the buoyancy of the water can reduce weight-bearing on the joints, making it easier to move.

Evidence on Hydrotherapy for Osteoarthritis Pain Relief

Several studies have investigated the effectiveness of hydrotherapy for OA pain relief.

A systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Geriatric Physical Therapy in 2017 found that hydrotherapy was effective in reducing pain and improving physical function in older adults with OA. The review included 8 randomized controlled trials with a total of 556 participants and found that hydrotherapy was more effective than land-based exercises or no treatment for reducing pain and improving physical function.

Another systematic review and meta-analysis published in the Journal of Physical Therapy Science in 2017 also found that hydrotherapy was effective in reducing pain and improving physical function in patients with knee OA.

The review included 10 randomized controlled trials with a total of 497 participants and found that hydrotherapy was more effective than land-based exercise or no treatment for reducing pain and improving physical function.

A randomized controlled trial published in the Clinical Rehabilitation Journal in 2012 also found that hydrotherapy was effective in reducing pain and improving physical function in patients with knee OA.

The study included 60 patients with knee OA who were randomly assigned to either a hydrotherapy group or a land-based exercise group. After 12 weeks of treatment, the hydrotherapy group had significantly greater reductions in pain and improvements in physical function compared to the land-based exercise group.

How Does Hydrotherapy Relieve Osteoarthritis Pain?

The exact mechanism by which hydrotherapy relieves OA pain is not fully understood. However, several theories have been proposed. One theory is that the warmth of the water can help to relax muscles and reduce joint stiffness, making it easier to move.

Another theory is that the buoyancy of the water can reduce weight-bearing on the joints, which can reduce pain and inflammation. Additionally, some studies have suggested that hydrotherapy may have a positive effect on the release of endorphins, which are natural painkillers produced by the body.

How to Do Hydrotherapy for Osteoarthritis Pain Relief

If you are interested in trying hydrotherapy to relieve OA pain, there are several options available. Some people prefer to do hydrotherapy at home using a bathtub or pool.

If you have access to a facility with a hydrotherapy pool, you may be able to receive supervised treatment from a physical therapist or other healthcare professional.

When doing hydrotherapy at home, it is important to maintain a water temperature between 83-90 degrees Fahrenheit, monitor for any adverse reactions, and never exceed your physical limitations.

Conclusion

Hydrotherapy is a promising form of complementary therapy for OA pain relief. Multiple studies have shown that hydrotherapy is effective in reducing pain and improving physical function in patients with OA.

While the exact mechanism is not fully understood, hydrotherapy may work by reducing joint stiffness, reducing weight-bearing on the joints, and promoting the release of natural painkillers. If you are interested in trying hydrotherapy for OA pain relief, talk to your healthcare provider to determine if it is appropriate for you.