Is A Hot Tub Good For Arthritis Pain?

One of the things that I enjoy most about my hot tub is the way that it can really soothe away my aches and pains after a long, hard day. After working out at the gym for an hour or two, there’s nothing more wonderful than feeling the warm water helping my sore joints and muscles. While I was relaxing in my hot tub a couple of days ago, I wondered whether it would have the same effect on arthritis pain. After all, arthritis is an incredibly common problem, and finding ways to ease the suffering is paramount for many people. With this in mind, I decided to do a bit of research to answer this question

Is a hot tub good for arthritis pain? Hot tubs can offer a valuable source of relief for arthritis sufferers, easing the soreness in the joints that can be so difficult to cope with. More people are now turning to the comfort that a hot tub can bring rather than relying on pain relief medications which can be addictive and have unwanted side effects.

So, why are hot tubs so useful for reducing the pain associated with arthritis? How can arthritis sufferers maximise the benefits that using a hot tub can bring? I was surprised to discover that there are many health benefits to being in your hot tub and it’s much more than just bubbling water!

Why Are Hot Tubs So Good For Arthritis Pain?

Arthritis is a very common form of inflammation and joint pain. Although most people think that only the elderly are afflicted, in fact there are a number of younger people who also have the severe pain, swollen joints and restricted lifestyle that come with this condition. Many people these days are looking for more natural relief from conditions such as arthritis and regularly using a hot tub can provide some welcome relief.

There are two widespread types of arthritis – rheumatoid arthritis which is an autoimmune condition, and osteoarthritis which is a disorder of the joints. However, both types are extremely painful and can be very difficult to treat. Although most doctors will prescribe strong painkilling medications for arthritis sufferers, these can be ineffective or may produce unwanted side effects. It’s no wonder, then, that so many sufferers are now looking for other, more natural ways to reduce their suffering and hot tubs are just one such option.

Hot tubs are a natural remedy which offer pain relief with none of the unwanted side effects that come with traditional medications which are prescribed to treat this condition. The relief experienced when using a hot tub is also almost instantaneous, so this makes a hot tub an efficient and surprisingly simple option for treating the pain of arthritis.

While not every arthritis sufferer will experience the same level of relief when using a hot tub, hydrotherapy is one of the recommended options advised by The Arthritis Foundation to help improve quality of life.

In fact, hot tubs are nothing new when it comes to arthritis relief. In fact, for centuries, those suffering from joint pain have used the benefits provided by hot natural spas to reduce their symptoms. Of course, in the past, the science which explains why hot water is so beneficial in relieving the pain of arthritis was unknown. However, today, the power of hydrotherapy is better understood.

When you get into a hot tub, your bodyweight naturally decreases by up to 90%. This, in turn, reduces pressure placed on the joints, improving their mobility. Also, when you submerge yourself in the water of a hot tub, your blood vessels will dilate. This enhances blood circulation, reducing blood pressure and inflammation. Since arthritis is a condition associated with inflammation, hydrotherapy can bring great relief.

How Should I Begin Using A Hot Tub For Arthritis Pain?

Although using a hot tub is a great way to relieve the pain of arthritis, you shouldn’t rush straight into using one before consulting with your doctor. It’s always sensible to make sure that you get the green light from your general practitioner who knows your condition and who can offer you informed advice. Once you’ve been given the go-ahead, you should only introduce your body gradually to the warm water. This prepares your body and muscles for the benefits that the hot tub can bring. You’ll find that you’ll soon be able to move more freely, but remember to take it easy and don’t push your body too hard after you get out of the water.

Can A Hot Tub Help Arthritis Sufferers In Any Other Ways?

While I’ve already highlighted the benefits that a hot tub can provide in terms of pain relief for arthritis sufferers, there are a few other advantages that the hot water can provide to help those with this painful condition minimise their suffering.

• Weight loss – hot tubs can help promote weight loss by stimulating the circulation and raising metabolic rate. As a result, body fat can be burned more quickly. Since many arthritis sufferers are also overweight, this is an excellent additional benefit.
• Reduces blood pressure – for arthritis sufferers who also have hypertension, a hot tub can be very helpful. Since the hot water enhances blood flow around the body, it reduces blood pressure helping to promote better overall wellness.
• Improved skin health – hot tubs open up the pores, helping to eradicate impurities trapped within the skin. They also detoxify the skin by killing germs and bacteria on its surface. This helps to boost your complexion and improve your skin health.
• Reduced stress – many arthritis sufferers experience extreme stress due to the difficulties of coping with their condition. However, hot tubs can help to relieve stress by relieving pressure on the muscles and joints while simultaneously stimulating the release of endorphin and dopamine – two hormones which have an analgesic effect and combat stress.
• Fewer headaches – arthritis sufferers who also have regular headaches or migraines can benefit from using a hot tub. The hot water eliminates the chemicals in the body which produce tension while dilating the blood vessels and stimulating blood circulation. This, in turn, relieves pressure on the blood vessels which causes migraines and headaches.
• Better sleep – many arthritis sufferers struggle to sleep due to their condition. However, hot tubs can curb insomnia, promoting restful, deep sleep by inducing the natural sleeping mechanics of the body for an undisturbed sleep. A hot tub’s stress-relieving properties also help to promote a sound rest.

How Can I Get Maximum Benefit From My Hot Tub?

While simply getting into a hot tub will help to relieve the pain of arthritis, there are a few ways in which you can maximise the benefits that the hot water can provide. One of the best things that you can do in your hot tub as an arthritis sufferers is to carry out some simple and gentle stretching exercises which will increase your flexibility while toning your muscles.

Some of the best exercises to try in your hot tub include:

• Bicycle kicks
• Water walking
• Leg curls
• Leg lifts

Of course, you should always ask your doctor first before trying any of these exercises. You may also find it helpful to hold the hot tub’s side while carrying out leg movements, and a flotation belt could be helpful if you’re carrying out exercises like water walking as this will improve your balance and keep you safe in the water.

Related Questions

When is the best time to use a hot tub if I have arthritis? Many arthritis sufferers find that they struggle to get moving in the mornings, and experience more pain at this time of day. If you use your hot tub straight after you wake up, this is the best way to soothe your sore muscles and stiff joints and to prepare you for the day.

What type of hot tub is best for arthritis sufferers? Although any kind of hot tub can be helpful in relieving the pain of arthritis, there are certain models which can offer even more benefits. You may want to consider choosing a low-profile hot tub as this will make it much easier to enter and exit the water if you suffer from restricted mobility. You should also look for a model which has comfortable and supportive integral seating which allows you to sit in a range of positions without experiencing any pain. The third factor you should keep in mind is the adjustability of the water jets – being able to move them into the best position for your needs will enable you to alter the intensity of their massaging capabilities on your sensitive muscles and joints. Finally, you should also keep in mind the depth of your hot tub if you want to carry out stretching exercises in the water.

How do I stay safe in a hot tub? Hot tubs are generally safe, however it’s important to be aware that you shouldn’t keep the water at too high a temperature as this could result in overheating. You should also take care with getting into and out of your hot tub to guard against accidental slips and falls.