Hydrotherapy : an integral part of physical medicine.

This film reviews various methods in physical medicine, including physiotherapy, occupational therapy and hydrotherapy - stressing the importance of these methods in rehabilitation. The film identified modern life to be one of the key stressors and strains. The chronically infirm and ill are also subject to strains and stresses. Proper diagnosis is required to seek an appropriate cure. Patients are advised to rest and recuperate. A young woman sits reading a book, 'The Water Babies'. On occasions, limbs are rested by immobilisation. Various traction equipment is utilitsed. A patient with rheumatoid arthritis exercises in bed. There is also a remedial gymnasium. There are other therapies which use heat or radiotherapy. Occupational therapy can also be helpful (sewing, basketwork and weaving are on offer). Children are offered physiotherapy through play. The majority of the film promotes the benefits of hydrotherapy (vapour baths, hot packs, sprays and aeration) showing the varied facilities in the institution.