Constitutional hydrotherapy
Constitutional hydrotherapy, with its blend of hot and cold compresses, electrotherapy, and focus on circulation and immune system function, is a gentle yet powerful, versatile and effective treatment for enhancing vitality and promoting healing and restoring balance to the body.
Whether used for chronic conditions or as a preventive measure, this therapeutic modality is a cornerstone of naturopathic medicine and an excellent support for integrative care.
Dr. Nik Belikoff offers this special therapy at 3125 B NE Holladay St.
He is accepting Oregon Health Plan and most private insurance.
Water is essential to all things living. Water can absorb and transfer heat, conduct cold efficiently and its fluidity allows for easeful application. These properties allow water to be an excellent tool for healing. How can we regulate water and it’s properties to enhance our capacity to heal? Hydrotherapy, particularly in the form of constitutional hydrotherapy, is a powerful and time-tested approach that harnesses the natural healing properties of water and temperature fluctuations to support and enhance the body’s healing processes. Rooted in ancient traditions and modernized in naturopathic medicine, this method offers a holistic way to stimulate vitality, optimize circulation, and balance the body’s intricate systems. Here is a deeper dive into what the experience may be like, including its mechanisms and benefits.
Potential Health Benefits of Hydrotherapy
Underlying Mechanisms of Hydrotherapy in Healing
Thermal Regulation and Blood Flow
- Hot water tends to dilate blood vessels, increasing fresh blood flow to the area of application. This brings oxygen, nutrients, and immune cells to tissues and organ systems that may be inflamed, weakened or damaged.
- Cold water causes blood vessels to constrict, which tends to reduce inflammation and coaxes waste products and excess fluids out of the area, helping to alleviate swelling and congestion.
Hot and Cold Contrast
- The combination of hot and cold compresses creates a pulsing effect on the circulatory system. The alternate dilation and constriction of blood vessels encourages the removal of metabolic waste from tissues and enhances circulation, helping to eliminate toxins through the liver and kidneys.
- This process helps the body regulate itself by improving the flow of healthy blood and lymph, key components in immune function and nutrient delivery. A key principle of naturopathic medicine is that healing is proportional to normal blood flow as well as quality of blood cells
Electrotherapy Integration
- The use of low-frequency electrotherapy (via a sine wave machine) adds another dimension to the treatment. This microcurrent helps stimulate smooth muscle contraction in the digestive and elimination organs, promoting better digestion, assimilation, and detoxification. It also supports the lymphatic system, encouraging the movement of white blood cells to areas of need, further enhancing the body’s natural healing response.
Parasympathetic Nervous System Activation
- The alternating temperature applications also have a profound relaxing effect on the nervous system. These gentle oscillations between hot and cold encourage the activation of the parasympathetic nervous system, which is responsible for the “rest and digest” response, promoting relaxation, stress relief, and a sense of well-being.
Preparing for and Maximizing Your Hydrotherapy Sessions
Pre-Treatment Tips:
- Avoid heavy meals immediately before treatment but have something light to eat about an hour before the session. This ensures that your body is receptive and ready to focus on healing rather than digestion.
- Maintain hydration throughout the day with filtered water.
- Avoid or limit caffeine and alcohol, as these can interfere with the ability to relax and heal.
- Turn off or silence electronics and plan for minimal stress before and after the treatment, allowing yourself time and space to fully benefit from the session.
What to Expect During Treatment:
- You will be covered with hot towels for 5 minutes, followed by cold towels for 10 minutes. This alternation of hot and cold compresses will be done on both the front and back of the upper body.
- The treatment is performed on a soft treatment table, where you’ll be wrapped in towels and blankets, ensuring comfort and warmth.
- Electrotherapy may be introduced as an optional enhancement to further stimulate digestion and elimination. The electrodes are placed at the back and navel.
- Treatments are always adjustable to suit varying needs and sensitivities.
Post-Treatment Tips:
- When the session is complete, take your time getting up from the table to avoid dizziness. Move slowly and allow your body to adjust to the new circulation dynamics.
- The hydrotherapist will check in about your experience, how you are feeling, and measure your vital signs.
- Continue to hydrate well and avoid overly strenuous activity immediately after treatment.
Precautions and Contraindications
While hydrotherapy can be a wonderful treatment for most humans, there are some situations where it may not be recommended:
- Sensory impairment or neuropathy: Difficulty sensing temperature can make it challenging to gauge and tolerate hot or cold applications.
- High fever: When the body is already working through an acute fever, additional temperature stress may be too taxing.
- Severe anxiety or hypersensitivity: Some individuals may be sensitive to temperature changes or find the therapy too intense.
- Bladder infections, open wounds, or hemorrhage: Areas with infection or active injury should be avoided.
- Immunosuppressive treatments: Those undergoing treatments that suppress immune function will need to consult their primary care physician before initiating hydrotherapy.
By preparing properly and understanding the benefits and precautions, you can fully optimize your hydrotherapy experience and enjoy the profound healing effects it offers.
