What method is commonly used in hydrotherapy treatments?

The method commonly used in hydrotherapy treatments is the whirlpool. Hydrotherapy involves the use of water for pain relief and treatment, utilizing its physical properties for therapeutic purposes. A whirlpool bath provides a way to immerse the body in warm water, with the added benefit of agitation or movement from jets. This combination can help to relax muscles, improve circulation, and ease tension, making it a popular choice in various therapeutic settings.

While steam baths and saunas also use water in their treatments, they primarily focus on the properties of steam and heat rather than immersing the body in water, which is a key aspect of hydrotherapy. Cold compresses are typically used for localized treatments rather than the full-body immersion that whirlpools offer, making them less fitting for hydrotherapy applications. Thus, the whirlpool stands out as the most appropriate method within this context.