Hydrotherapy is a type of water therapy that, combined with medication, can benefit people with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Some types of hydrotherapy include aquatic exercise, water immersion therapy, and warm compresses.

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If you have rheumatoid arthritis (RA), hydrotherapy may include using swimming pools, warm baths, or warm compresses to help relieve joint pain.

Hydrotherapy is typically used in conjunction with a medication regimen. It’s a good idea to speak with a healthcare professional or physical therapist before starting hydrotherapy.

Keep reading to learn more about what hydrotherapy is, how it may help with RA, and three hydrotherapy exercises you can try.

Using water as therapy is called hydrotherapy.

A 2024 study found that, in individuals with RA, hydrotherapy was associated with a decrease in:

The benefits of hydrotherapy include reduced joint pain and improved muscle strength.

This is because water supports your weight and increases your joints’ range of motion while also providing resistance for you to work against.

Aquatic exercise

According to the Arthritis Foundation, physical activity may reduce RA symptoms and make daily activities easier.

A 2022 review of studies found that aquatic exercise was associated with:

  • decreased pain
  • decreased disease activity
  • improved physical function

However, the researchers emphasize the need for more high quality studies.

If you’ve seen a water aerobics class in session at a recreation center, you’re familiar with a type of hydrotherapy. A personal trainer or fitness instructor usually leads this kind of class.

You can also do aquatic exercise under the supervision of a physical therapist. In this setting, you may use exercise equipment like a treadmill or stationary bike while in the pool.

This type of exercise is low impact, so it takes the pressure off painful joints. You can also customize it to your level of fitness and ability.

Water immersion therapy

Also called balneotherapy, water immersion therapy is when you immerse yourself in a bath to help treat a condition.

You can treat yourself to water immersion therapy at a spa or at home. If you’re trying it at home, a 2021 review of research recommends:

  • spending about 20 minutes immersed
  • using warm water between 95°F (35°C) and 100°F (37.8°C)
  • adding minerals, such as Epsom or Dead Sea salts

Heated compresses

A relatively safe and cheap type of hydrotherapy is a heated compress. You can apply a heating pad or warm, damp washcloth to stiff joints or achy muscles.

Heated compresses work by increasing blood circulation and tissue repair. They also promote relaxation, which can relieve chronic pain, tension, and stress held by your body.

If you decide to use a heated compress, keep these tips in mind:

  • Test the heat on the inside of your arm first to make sure it isn’t too hot.
  • Protect your skin by wrapping the compress in a thin towel.
  • Only apply heat for up to 20 minutes at a time.
  • Avoid heat if you have swelling or a flare-up.

You can adapt hydrotherapy like aquatic exercise to any fitness level. Whether you’re just starting your fitness journey or you’re an experienced athlete, there’s a water workout that’s right for you.

Exercise at your own pace and stay hydrated. Remember to pay attention to how you feel and stop if you experience discomfort.

Benefits of water walking for people with RA include strength and aerobic conditioning.

How to do it:

  1. Standing in a swimming pool, walk forward 10 to 20 steps.
  2. Walk backward to your starting point.
  3. Continue for 5 minutes.

This exercise may help people with RA increase their strength, aerobic conditioning, flexibility, and range of motion.

How to do it:

  1. Stand sideways and hold the edge of the pool with one hand for support.
  2. Start with the leg farthest from the pool edge. Keep your leg straight and raise it in front of you so that your leg is parallel with the pool edge, then lower it to its starting position and repeat 10 times.
  3. Using the same leg, raise it to the side, then lower it and repeat another 10 times.
  4. Turn around so you’re holding the edge of the pool with your other hand, and do both movements with your other leg.
  5. Repeat for three sets per leg.

Benefits of the forward lunge for people with RA include building strength, flexibility, and range of motion.

How to do it:

  1. Stand sideways and hold the edge of the pool with one hand for support.
  2. Take a giant step forward and lower yourself onto your front leg while keeping your head above water. To protect your front knee, make sure it stays behind your toes and doesn’t lean too far forward.
  3. Return to your starting position.
  4. Do the same movement with your other leg.
  5. Repeat with three sets of 10 lunges per leg.

Hydrotherapy for RA can include water exercise, water immersion therapy, and warm compresses.

You can do aquatic exercises in group classes at your local recreation center pool or with a physical therapist in a specialized setting, like a rehabilitation center or clinic.

You can also engage in water therapy from home by taking a warm bath or using a warm compress.

Hydrotherapy benefits people with RA by reducing symptoms, increasing comfort, and improving overall health.