The Wet Sock Treatment

warm pair of socks

The Wet Sock Treatment

Hydrotherapy is a simple and elegant treatment modality which uses water of varying temperatures to treat various conditions. Hydrotherapy can enhance circulation of blood and lymph; decrease congestion; stimulate the immune system; improve the functioning of organs and glands; and increase overall health and vitality.

The wet sock treatment is uncomplicated, costs nothing, and uses your body’s innate ability to heal itself. The best part is that it really works! Whether you’re suffering from a sore throat, a cold, inflammation, a headache or migraine, nasal congestion, a cough, bronchitis, or a sinus infection, this treatment can help you to increase the healing response and decrease the tight congestion pressure you are feeling.

How does it work? Well, your body is designed to divert blood to areas of your body which are cold. Wearing cold socks on your feet thereby increases circulation and decreases congestion in the head, neck, and upper respiratory tract as blood is diverted to the feet.

tart the wet sock treatment on the first day of an illness and repeat for three nights in a row, or as directed by your physician. If you have a headache or a migraine, perform the wet sock treatment as you take a restful nap. If you are suffering a chronic condition, please consult Dr. Kuzniar before starting the wet sock treatment.

What you will need:

1 pair of thin cotton socks

1 pair of thick woolen socks

1 bowl of ice water

1 warm foot bath or warm whole body bath

Directions:

1) Take a hot bath for 5 to 10 minutes or soak your feet in a warm bath before you begin the treatment.

2) Soak the thin socks in the bowl of ice water. Wring them thoroughly so that they are damp but not dripping.

3) Place cold wet socks on you feet. Place thick woolen socks over the wet socks.

4) Go directly to bed. Keep yourself warm under the covers.

5) Wear the socks overnight. If you awaken at night sweating, change your pajamas but do not remove the socks.

6) The socks should be dry and warm in the morning.

Please note: This information is for educational purposes only. Consultation with a licensed health care practitioner is recommended for anyone suffering from a health ailment.

You are free to use the information in this newsletter or pass it on to others, but please keep it intact and credit it to Dr. Leat Kuzniar, ND.

Dr. Leat Kuzniar ND
Dr. Leat Kuzniar ND
drkuzniar@njnaturopath.com

Dr. Kuzniar is a board member of the New Jersey Association of Naturopathic Physicians and is also a member of the Gastroenterology Association of Naturopathic Physicians. She currently holds a State of Vermont Naturopathic Physician license (as New Jersey does not yet offer licensing for Naturopathic doctors).