Being injured.

 

I have a inflamed calf muscle and ankle and the only exercise that helped was: I dive down to 3.2m in our gym diving pool and then return to surface. I do this about ten times and then I finish with some lap swimming.

Hydrostatic pressure can be beneficial for reducing inflammation at a 3-meter depth by compressing tissues and promoting fluid movement, thereby decreasing swelling and improving circulation. This phenomenon, known as aquatic therapy, uses the constant, even pressure of water to counteract fluid pooling in lower extremities and enhance nutrient delivery to injured areas, aiding recovery.

How Hydrostatic Pressure Helps with Inflammation

Reduces swelling:

The constant pressure from the water compresses tissues, helping to reduce edema (swelling) by assisting fluid movement out of the interstitial spaces and back into the bloodstream or lymphatic system.

Improves circulation:

Hydrostatic pressure enhances blood flow and circulation, which helps remove inflammatory substances and delivers oxygen and nutrients to damaged tissues.

Decreases pain:

The pressure can provide phasic stimuli to sensory receptors, which may decrease pain perception, allowing for more comfortable movement and exercise.

Promotes recovery:

By reducing swelling and improving circulation, hydrostatic pressure helps to minimize the negative effects of excessive or prolonged inflammation, such as stiffness and chronic inflammation.

Why Depth Matters

Greater pressure:

The deeper you are submerged in water, the greater the hydrostatic pressure exerted on the body.

Increased benefits:

A 3-meter depth provides significant hydrostatic pressure, which can enhance the benefits of compression and circulation, leading to more effective reduction of inflammation.