Therapeutic Spa HYDROTHERAPY

Objectives of the Lecture: To familiarize with the concept of spa or therapeutic resorts. To know the main classifications of spa resorts accordingly to:  the diseases,  the disabilities,  the natural conditions.

Objectives of the Lecture To be able to detail the effects of spa treatments. To be aware of what SPA resorts have to offer and what facilities they have.

Definitions SPA = Sanitas Per Aqua  Health by water Spa is a place where water containing minerals are pumped or conducted naturally and uses water for therapeutic purposes. Spa is a place where therapeutic mud, lakes, hot spring water or sea water ( with algae) are present.

Definitions SPA is also referred to as a place where the climate is the primary principle for treatment and maintaining health. SPA is also referred to a resort that offers programs for physical and spiritual self improvement, these programs may include a combination of:  Fitness,  Recreation regimens,  Facial or body cosmetic treatment  Physical treatment.

Types of SPA SPA is always located near or in the mountains or the seas (where water is available). Spa may be classified as follows:  The treated disease.  The types of disabilities.  The natural conditions.

Classification per Type of Disease. The diseases can be treated such as:  Skin disease,  Rheumatic disease,  Cardiovascular diseases.

Classification per Type of Disability Some disabilities need careful medical care and supervision : (Tuberculosis,Poliomy elitis,Spinal Cord Injuries,..)

The following support services are there available and needed:  Housing units with specific equipments and technical devices.  Transport services,  Social activities,  Nursing care,  Specialized Physical Therapists  Special recreational programs (basket ball, volley ball, arts,..)

Spa Classified per Natural Conditions Inland SPA : these resorts depend mainly on the use of minerals and sulphuric water from natural springs. Sea Side SPA, which depends mainly on the use of curative sea water and algea.

SPA is designed to offer the following facilities: 1. Treatment center:  Diagnostic clinic with modern equipment and well trained personnel.  Laboratory area to investigate and research some aspects of balneotherapy or treatment modalities.  Department of Physical Therapy with mineral bathes, massage and hydrotherapy.  Gymnasiums and sports areas.

SPA is designed to offer the following facilities: 2. Living quarters ( patients rooms and rest areas). 3. Outdoor walking areas, wheelchair accessible pathways. 4. Medical and administrative personnel. 5. Engineering and maintenance staff.

Effects of SPA Treatments The effects of SPA treatments depends on the following: 1. THERAPEUTIC ACTION OF MINERAL WATER : –Temperature, hydrostatic pressure and hydrodynamic pressure, of water, chemical constituants of water 2. CHANGE OF ENVIRONMENT 3. PHYSICAL AND MENTAL RELAXATION GAINED

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