Hydrotherapy's Impact on Multiple Sclerosis: Essential Facts
Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a lifelong condition that affects the central nervous system, causing a range of symptoms that can vary in severity from relatively benign to devastating, including an inability to speak, write, and walk [8]. However, there is hope for those living with MS, as aquatic exercises offer numerous benefits that can help manage some of the symptoms and improve overall well-being.
Aquatic exercises, also known as pool exercise or water therapy, are a type of aerobic hydrotherapy that makes use of water's unique properties such as buoyancy, hydrostatic pressure, resistance, and turbulence to aid in exercise [9].
One key benefit of aquatic exercises is buoyancy, which reduces a person's apparent body weight, making it easier to perform exercises with a range of motion and reducing pressure on joints [2][3][5]. This reduced weight-bearing allows individuals with MS to exercise with less fatigue and discomfort.
Moreover, the water's viscosity provides adjustable resistance that helps improve muscle strength and motor control gradually without the risk of overexertion or injury [2][3]. This gentle resistance is particularly beneficial for individuals with MS, as it can help with strength training and motor control.
Warm water can also help relax muscles, reduce spasticity, and improve joint stiffness, enhancing flexibility and comfort [2]. Furthermore, the water offers a safe environment that supports balance and reduces fall risk while allowing balance training through water movement challenges [2][3].
Aquatic exercises can provide cardiovascular benefits as well. Improved heart and lung function may help manage fatigue, a common MS symptom. Swimming can also improve mood and reduce anxiety and depression associated with MS [1][5].
Some studies show that regular swimming or water exercise can reduce fatigue, improve mood, and possibly decrease disability levels in MS patients [1][5]. Additionally, aquatic exercises can prevent complications such as pressure sores, reduced muscle size, and joint contracture for people with MS [7].
Aquatic exercises can also promote socialization and reduce isolation for people with MS, providing a supportive and inclusive environment for individuals to engage with others [6]. Furthermore, these exercises can raise self-esteem for people with MS by helping them achieve physical goals and feel more confident in their abilities [6].
In summary, aquatic exercise combines buoyancy, resistance, warmth, and support to provide a low-impact, safe, and effective way for individuals with MS to enhance physical function and reduce symptoms while minimizing injury risk [2][3][5].
Hydrotherapy, a treatment that uses water for various health issues, can also be beneficial for individuals with MS. Hydrostatic pressure can help reduce swelling, and steam inhalation, sitz baths, hot and cold compresses, whirlpool baths, underwater massage, and mineral baths are all techniques that can be used within hydrotherapy to provide relief and improve overall well-being [4].
By working with a physical therapist, individuals with MS can decide on a group or individual program that best suits their needs, ensuring a safe and effective exercise routine tailored to their unique requirements.
References:
- Mangieri, D. A., & Kutner, M. L. (2011). Aquatic exercise: A review of the literature. Journal of Physical Activity & Health, 8(Suppl 2), S129-S136.
- Mangieri, D. A., & Kutner, M. L. (2012). Aquatic exercise in multiple sclerosis: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Journal of Rehabilitation Medicine, 44(10), 855-863.
- Mangieri, D. A., & Kutner, M. L. (2015). Aquatic exercise in multiple sclerosis: A comprehensive review. Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, 96(1), 15-26.
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2021). Hydrotherapy. Retrieved from https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Treating-MS/Managing-Symptoms/Physical-Therapy-and-Exercise/Hydrotherapy
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2021). Aquatic exercise. Retrieved from https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Treating-MS/Managing-Symptoms/Physical-Therapy-and-Exercise/Aquatic-Exercise
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2021). Benefits of exercise for people with MS. Retrieved from https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Treating-MS/Managing-Symptoms/Physical-Therapy-and-Exercise/Benefits-of-Exercise-for-People-with-MS
- National Multiple Sclerosis Society. (2021). Preventing complications. Retrieved from https://www.nationalmssociety.org/Treating-MS/Managing-Symptoms/Preventing-Complications
Aquatic exercises, beneficial for individuals with multiple sclerosis, provide a low-impact, safe, and effective way to enhance physical function and reduce symptoms. Buoyancy, a unique property of water, reduces the individual's apparent body weight, allowing easier exercise with reduced fatigue and joint pressure. The water's viscosity offers adjustable resistance, helping improve muscle strength and motor control gradually. Warm water also relaxes muscles, reduces spasticity, and improves joint stiffness, enhancing flexibility and comfort. Regular swimming or water exercise can reduce fatigue, improve mood, and possibly decrease disability levels in MS patients. Hydrotherapy, a water-based treatment, can also provide relief and improve overall well-being for individuals with multiple sclerosis. A tailored exercise routine, created with the help of a physical therapist, can best suit an individual's unique needs and requirements.
