Hydrotherapy is a general term for a group of alternative treatments that use water for the relief of various diseases or injuries, or for cleansing the digestive tract. The use of hydrotherapy has a long history as a form of medical treatment. For example, in classical times the Romans and Greeks found sources of water that were considered to have healing properties.

Hydrotherapy is used to treat a wide range of conditions, often in conjunction with conventional medical treatment.

Some forms of hydrotherapy are not suitable for certain patients. Cold baths should not be given to young children or the elderly. Sauna baths should be avoided by people with heart conditions.

External hydrotherapy involves the immersion of the body in water or the application of water or ice to the body, while temperature-based treatments involve the different effects of hot or cold water on the skin and underlying...