Constitutional Hydrotherapy: an Ancient Medicine in Modern Times

While hydrotherapy has its roots in Ancient Greece and Rome, early Naturopathic Physicians refined the treatments into what is known today as "Constitutional Hydrotherapy". Constitutional Hydrotherapy involves the use of hot and cold applications to increase circulation to the internal organs as well as the extremities, alongside electrotherapy devices that are placed over certain organs for a specific therapeutic effect. Each treatment is specific to the individual and the condition being treated.

As is often the case, Naturopathic Medicine seamlessly blends ancient traditions with modern technology for enhanced therapeutic benefit. At Doctors' Choice Integrative Medicine, we love to bring these time honoured healing traditions into the fabric of your care.

Talk Hydrotherapy with our Vancouver Naturopathic Doctors!

The Benefits of Constitutional Hydrotherapy

Frequently Asked Questions

  • It enhances blood and lymphatic flow
  • Strengthens, heals and improves the function of the digestive system, circulatory system, immune
    system and nervous system, thereby helping to prevent chronic disease.
  • Constitutional hydrotherapy improves blood flow to help increase oxygen and nutrient delivery to organs.
  • It aids in the elimination of toxic waste from the body.
  • It reduces inflammation.
  • Constitutional hydrotherapy speeds healing time of injuries.

There are 3 key steps:

  1. Hot towel application: this draws blood to the surface of the skin through vasodilation.  This opens the pores and makes the patient perspire.
  2. Cold towel application: this causes an influx of blood from the skin vessels into the core of the body.  The body absorbs water from the towel which increases hydration of the tissues.
  3. Sine wave electrical stimulation: this causes muscle contraction, particularly the smooth muscles, affecting specific spinal reflexes.

It is a gentle yet powerful treatment. It can be used alongside any other treatment or medication and often enhances their effect. It is safe and is generally well tolerated. It works well in complex chronic conditions because of its effects on multiple body systems.

Vancouver Constitutional Hydrotherapy is safe for all ages and benefits a wide range of conditions.

Constitutional Hydrotherapy benefits many conditions, including but not limited to the following:

  • Digestive disorders (Inflammatory bowel disease, Irritable bowel syndrome, Constipation, Gallbladder disease, Liver disease, Gastroesophageal reflux (GERD), Indigestion, Celiac Disease, Leaky gut, Gastroparesis)
  • Metabolic disease (Diabetes, Thyroid conditions)
  • Cardiovascular disease (Hypertension, Peripheral vascular disease, Circulation)
  • Acute infections (Upper respiratory infections, Food poisoning)
  • Acute injuries (Sprain, Concussion, Muscle strain, Muscle spasm, Fracture)
  • Musculoskeletal (Arthritis, Fibromyalgia)
  • Chronic infection and Autoimmune conditions
  • Detox, Heavy metal toxicity, Mold exposure

Given that this treatment is conducted by a Naturopathic Doctor, it is covered by extended health plans that cover naturopathic services.  Check with your provider regarding coverage.

If you receive premium assistance, MSP reimburses you a portion of your visit fees.

dr christine kadykalo vancouver naturopathic doctor

Dr. Christine Kadykalo has specialized training in Constitutional Hydrotherapy.  She provides this invaluable treatment to new and existing patients.  With her incredible skill and deep knowledge of naturopathic medicine, Dr. Kaykalo’s Vancouver Hydrotherapy treatments provide exceptional health benefits.

6 Principles ~ the Way of a Naturopath Vancouver

Passed through the centuries, this foundational principle of medical practice has its origins in the Hippocratic Oath. It reminds physicians to soberly assess both the pros and cons of treatment prior to proceeding with any intervention. At Doctors’ Choice Naturopathic, treatment always begins with the least invasive methods first.
Intrinsic to Naturopathic Medicine is a firm belief in the body’s inherent ability to heal itself. Naturopathic Doctors identify and remove wherever possible the obstacles that block this healing ability, and then provide guidance on diet, nutrients, medicine and lifestyle changes necessary for the body to become well.
A fundamental aspect of this approach is the recognition that symptoms are not the disease itself but rather the body’s attempt to heal. Symptoms are the roadmap for uncovering the obstacles to cure, and thus need to be supported, not suppressed. Remove the symptom first, you lose your map. Support the body in healing, and the symptoms resolve themselves as cure is achieved.
You need to be treated as an integrated whole in order to become truly well. Body, mind and spirit.
Doctor as Teacher is foundational to Naturopathic Medicine and the work we do at Doctors’ Choice Naturopathic Clinic. Dr. Reid takes precious time each visit to teach you about your health and the recommendations she is making, equipping you with the tools you need to make effective change. Knowledge is Power.

Lets talk Naturopathic Medicine in Vancouver!