Hydrotherapy Interventions for Muscle Recovery in Athletes: A Narrative Review

Abstract

Background: Hydrotherapy, leveraging water-based interventions, has garnered interest in sports medicine for its potential to enhance muscle
recovery in athletes. This narrative review aims to synthesize current evidence regarding the effectiveness of various hydrotherapy interventions and their physiological underpinnings in promoting muscle recovery.

Research Problem and Aim: Despite the growing body of literature, there remains a need for a consolidated understanding of how specific hydrotherapy modalities contribute to muscle recovery, including the mechanisms involved and practical applications for athletes. This review seeks to clarify these aspects.

Methodology: A comprehensive literature search was conducted across electronic databases such as PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library, using keywords related to hydrotherapy and muscle recovery in athletes. Only articles published in English that focused on hydrotherapy interventions and their effects on muscle function, performance, and recovery perceptions were included.

Results: The findings indicate that hydrotherapy interventions, including cold water immersion, contrast water therapy, ice massage, aquatic exercise, and cryotherapy, effectively reduce muscle edema, inflammation, and pain, leading to improved muscle function and performance. Specifically, cold water immersion and contrast water therapy show significant benefits in enhancing recovery measures, while localized interventions like ice massage target specific muscle groups.

Implications: These results underscore the utility of hydrotherapy in athletic recovery protocols. Practitioners should tailor hydrotherapy interventions based on individual athlete needs, optimizing temperature, duration, and modality to maximize recovery outcomes while minimizing risks.