Hot Tub for Arthritis Pain

May 9, 2011

The continuing cold weather has reminded me how hard the cold is on arthritis sufferers.  If you suffer from arthritis, take note that the Arthritis Foundation highly recommends the healing properties of hot tubs for those with the disease.

Because people with arthritis have a very difficult time moving with ongoing pain, they tend to stop moving. By being submerged in warm water, some of the discomfort and pain is reduced so they keep moving. The relaxation response kicks in and the fact that there’s less gravity when in water lessens the strain on joints.  Arthritis sufferers may be able to add a mild exercise routine and practice with little discomfort if it’s done in a hot tub!

If you do suffer from arthritis and would like to start enjoying a hot tub exercise routine, please check with your doctor before you begin.

When your doctor has given his OK, get in the hot tub and allow your body to warm up for several minutes before starting any exercises.  Resistance and stretching exercises are the best forms of exercise for arthritis sufferers.

Here are four tips for using a hot tub for arthritis pain:

1) Warm-up thoroughly before starting to avoid muscle strain.

2) It’s possible to over-exert yourself by doing too much or doing it for too long. Listen to your body. Go slowly. If you become lightheaded or dizzy, stop.

3) After you’ve given your muscles a light workout, it’s important to stay warm for several minutes before getting out of the hot tub to allow your muscles to relax before hitting the cooler air.

4) Keep a record of your progress.  You’ll be gratified to see how much more you can do. Keeping a record lets you track your progress.

The hot tub has the added benefit of reducing the effects of gravity while you’re in it. The buoyancy helps put less strain on weak muscles. Warm water also causes the blood vessels to dilate, which allows for more blood and oxygen to flow to muscles and skin, and the heart. Finally, hot water is a mood elevator. Natural endorphins are released during your hot tub soak. This effect alone can work wonders to alleviate depression that is common among those with arthritis.

So if you are thinking about getting some exercise in a hot tub where your arthritis pain will be lessened, don’t forget to talk to your doctor first and follow our Olympic Hot Tub Company guidelines above in order to get maximum benefit.  A little warm water exercising can put you on the road to better health with less pain.  Keep moving! You’ll surprise yourself and maybe astound your doctor. Wouldn’t that be great?

SANUM PER AQUA.  Latin for Health through Water.

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