Endometriosis and Hydrotherapy

I. Definition
Hydrotherapy is defined as a type of medical treatment all involving water.

II. Types of hydrotherapy used in treating endometriosis

1) Local packings
The local packing consists of a wet sheet enveloping the abdomen, with a number of dry blankets packed tightly over it. The trapped abdominal heat causes the abdomen to be warmed and the sheet is re-wetted as it dries. Local packing is generally used to release the blood stagnation by stimulating the blood flow to the abdomen.

2) Sitz bath
A sitz bath is a type of bath in which only the hips and buttocks are soaked in water. It is said to reduce inflammation, infection and menstrual cramps.
a) Hot air bath
Hot air bath is one type of under water bath with hot air sprayed into the the water during the bath. It is said to increase blood flow in the body and reduce the pain caused by chronic illness, such as endometrial cramps.
b) General bath
General baths include the rain, spray, shower, shallow, plunge, douche, and common morning sponge baths with combination of cold and hot water. It is said that general baths help to increase the circulation of blood and reduce tension of muscles that cause heavy bleeding and endometriosis cramps.
c) Local bath
Local baths include the sitz, douche, spinal, foot and head baths with hot or cold water. The sitz head and foot baths are used flowing on occasion. It is said that local bath is an effective treatment for reducing inflammation.

3) Compress
There are 2 types of compress
a) Hot compress
By placing a hot towel over a part of the body will increase blood flow to that part of the body. It is said hot compress will help to reduce regional pains.
b) Cold Compress
By placing a very cold towel over a part of the body will reduce the inflammation of that part of the body.

4. Under water massage
Generally it is for people who suffer from chronic pain. It is said that this technique will help to reduce pain during and after massage because aching tissues are supported under the water.

5. Under water exercise
Under water exercise is said help to relax abdominal muscles, thereby reducing the endometrial cramps.

6. Ice and water
Ice and water is put in a wrapped bag and placed on the pain area which helps to reduce inflammation.

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