How Hydrotherapy Can Help Type 2 Diabetes Patients

While it’s widely known that hydrotherapy is often recommended for people with arthritis, there’s growing evidence that it can also be a valuable treatment for those suffering from type 2 diabetes.

Doctors frequently prescribe hot tub therapy for their arthritis patients, but recent research suggests that the benefits of hydrotherapy extend beyond joint pain and inflammation. In fact, individuals with type 2 diabetes may find it to be an effective part of their treatment plan as well.

How Prevalent Is Diabetes?

The National Diabetes Education Program (NDEP) reports that diabetes currently affects 25.8 million Americans, making up about 8.3% of the population.

In addition, there are an estimated 79 million adults aged 20 or older who have pre-diabetes—a condition where blood glucose levels are higher than normal but not yet high enough to be classified as diabetes. If left unmanaged, pre-diabetes can develop into full-blown type 2 diabetes, a chronic condition that significantly impacts daily life.

Type 2 diabetes is not a curable disease, but it can be managed through lifestyle changes such as healthy eating, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy body weight. While spa therapy can’t directly address diet or exercise, it may provide significant benefits for managing weight and improving circulation.

How Can Hydrotherapy Aid in Managing Type 2 Diabetes?

A groundbreaking study published in The New England Journal of Medicine revealed that hydrotherapy has a positive impact on people with type 2 diabetes. In this study, eight patients with diabetes participated in a daily 30-minute hot tub session for three weeks.

The results were promising: patients showed reduced body weight, lower plasma glucose levels, and a significant decrease in glycosylated hemoglobin (HbA1c), a key marker of long-term blood sugar control.

Hydrotherapy can also benefit individuals who are unable to exercise due to physical limitations. For people with type 2 diabetes, who may struggle with mobility or joint pain, the buoyancy of water provides a low-impact environment for exercise, reducing strain on the body while promoting blood circulation and muscle movement.

The warm water stimulates blood flow to the skeletal muscles, helping to enhance the body’s ability to regulate glucose levels.

Important Considerations for Diabetes Patients

While hydrotherapy can be beneficial for managing type 2 diabetes, it’s important for individuals with this condition to take certain precautions. The water temperature should be carefully monitored to ensure it’s not too hot for the body to handle, as diabetes patients may have reduced sensitivity to temperature, which can increase the risk of burns.

Additionally, the water must be kept clean and sanitized to avoid potential infections, which can be particularly problematic for those with diabetes.

One effective way to ensure water quality in hot tubs is by using ultraviolet (UV) water purification systems, which help maintain a safe and hygienic environment. Keeping the water at a comfortable temperature and ensuring proper sanitation can help diabetes patients fully benefit from hydrotherapy.

If you or someone you know is living with type 2 diabetes, consider discussing hydrotherapy with your doctor. When prescribed correctly and used under the right conditions, hydrotherapy could be a key tool in managing the condition and improving overall quality of life.

And don’t forget to inquire about whether a prescription for hydrotherapy can be submitted to your insurance provider, as well as how it may be eligible for tax deductions through your accountant.

Your Experience with Hydrotherapy and Diabetes

Have you or someone you know experienced the benefits of hydrotherapy for managing type 2 diabetes? Share your story in the comments below and help others discover this potential treatment option!