Arthritis can leave you feeling achy and stiff. The good news is, there are some great ways that you can treat your symptoms right in your own backyard. In this article, we take a closer look at how regular hot tub hydrotherapy can help with the symptoms of arthritis.
Hydrotherapy
It all starts with regular hydrotherapy. This age-old practice uses warm water immersion to ease pain and increase mobility. In fact, the Arthritis Foundation touts it as an efficient way to treat the symptoms of arthritis. It’s also effective in the management of chronic back pain and fibromyalgia.
If you’re wondering how you can make hydrotherapy a part of your daily routine, look no further than your hot tub. Having a spa in your own backyard is not only a great way to relax and de-stress, but also to help you manage your condition.
The Benefits of Hot Tub Therapy
Aside from the relaxation, your spa can offer, one of the biggest benefits is a reduction in the force of gravity that normally compresses your joints. The buoyancy of the water supports your limbs while the heat and massage encourage an increased flow of blood and oxygen to injured tissues.
This improvement in circulation can ease tension and muscle spasms while also decreasing swelling and inflammation.
The benefits don’t stop when you exit your hot tub, either. Researchers have found that people who regularly use hot tub hydrotherapy can expect pain relief to extend beyond the period of immersion.
How to Optimize Your Results
There are several things you can do to get the most out of your hot tub time. So, if you want to amp up your results, keep these valuable suggestions in mind:
1. Choose a Moderate Temperature
Although we often equate heat with healing, that’s not always true, when it comes to arthritis. While warmth is very beneficial for pain management, intense heat is not. Medical experts recommend setting your hot tub temperature at 100°F. It is warm enough to be relaxing but not so hot that it will exacerbate inflammation.
2. Add Stretches to Your Routine
Arthritis can really do a number on your range of motion. If you want to fight back, try adding some stretches to your hot tub time.
There really is no better time to work your muscles than when they’re warm. Try incorporating stretches that target the areas where you’re stiff and sore. Start out slowly and gradually build up over time as your range of motion improves.
3. Use Aromatherapy
Aromatherapy uses essential oils to aid in relaxation while offering relief from the stress that pain can cause. Peppermint is ideal for those with arthritis because it encourages blood flow to sore muscles and joints. Lemon, lemongrass, and chamomile are heralded as anti-inflammatory, making them great choices as well.
When purchasing aromatherapy products for your spa, it’s a good idea to check with your local dealer to ensure their compatibility with your hot tub’s water care system.
Managing Your Arthritis with Jacuzzi Hot Tubs of Calgary
If you’re ready to reap the benefits of hot tub hydrotherapy, get in touch with us at Jacuzzi Hot Tubs of Calgary. We can help you find a hot tub that will help you de-stress and manage the symptoms of arthritis.
If you want to learn more about how regular hot tub use can benefit your health, you can contact us here or drop in at our showroom to speak to one of our experts in person. Our staff is always on hand to answer questions or to help you find the perfect spa for your home.
by