Whirlpool Bath

A whirlpool bath is essentially a local bath for

extremities, with the limb submerging in rapidly
circulating water. It enable to assist or resist
.movement of extremities or lower trunk
It can be created in any size tub or tank, making
it possible to immerse the whole body for
.mechanical effect of water
 Principle of Application
The principle of whirlpool therapy is to combine the
effects of temprature with mechanical effects of
.water
Warm whirlpool contains water at temprature
ranges between 36-41 degree celecius and jet of
water or air stream allowed to produce turbulance
.in a water
This turbulance is produced by an electric motor
.incorporated in to appratus

Depending upon the appratus ,whirlpool bath can

.be used for the treatment of limbs and whole body
Types of Whirlpool Baths
Lower body tank
High body tank
Hubbarrd tank
Extrimity tank
Lower body tank: can be used to allow an adult
to sit in the tank and can range in a capacity from
.75 to 105 gallons
Butterfly shape full body Hubarrd tank
For under water exercise
 Temperature Ranges
Temperature of 36-41 degree celecius for
wound debritment
degree celecius for acutly inflammed 0-26
.structure
Treatment duration between 15-45 minuts
 Technique of Application

• The whirlpool tank is filled with water.

• The water temperature is checked by hand and
thermometer.
• Adjust the patient’s position in accordance to the treated
body part and considering both comfort and security.
• Explain the procedure and reassure the patient.
• Place the body part in the water.
• Encourage the patient to move while keeping the body
part under water during the treatment in case of joint
involvement.
• After completion of treatment, dry the body part and
wrap it keeping it warm.
 Therapeutic Effects

• The whirlpool bath combines the values of

conductive heat and gentle massage.
• The hydro-massage effect accomplishes the
following:
• A sedative action.
• A relief of pain by stimuli which act through the
pain gait mechanism.
• A relaxation of muscle spasms.
 Actions

– Producing vasodilatation
– Improving local arterial and lymphatic circulation.
– Softening of scar tissue.
– Breaking down old adhesions after fractures of
sprains.
– Cleaning and stimulation of wounds.
– Mechanically removing dirt, dead tissue and pus.
– Causing regression of the inflammatory process.
– Diminution of edema and effusion.
 Indications

•
• Poor circulation.
• Chronic edema.
• Separate dead tissue.
• Pain relief in amputations ( phantom pain).
• After removal of plaster cast (fractures).
• Stiff joints.
• Infected wounds → with added antiseptic agent.
• Arthritis with stiff and swollen joints.
• Polyomyelitis and paraplegia to improve circulation.
• Traumatic and chronic inflammatory conditions.
• Weak and painful feet.
• As preparation to massage, passive stretching and exercises.
 Contra-indications

• Diabetes mellitus.
• Varicose veins.
• Advanced arteriosclerosis.
• Advanced peripheral vascular diseases.
• Recent skin grafts.
• Active bleeding.
• Skin allergy.