If pain relief is what you seek, hot tub hydrotherapy could be the answer.

Hydrotherapy, the age-old practice of using water immersion for healing, is one of the best natural ways to deal with pain. In fact, the Arthritis Foundation has called hydrotherapy one of the most effective ways to treat musculoskeletal conditions such as arthritis.

When combined with another all-natural treatment — the jet massage provided by your spa — hydrotherapy is highly therapeutic. Regular massage, whether from a masseuse or your hot tub has been associated with improvements in pain, stiffness, flexibility and overall joint function.

The Benefits of Hydrotherapy

Soaking in your spa reduces the force of gravity that compresses affected joints. The buoyancy offered by the water offers complete support to sore limbs, while the heat and massaging action from the jets can help to increase blood circulation to injured areas.

This can help to:

• Ease muscle spasms
• Decrease swelling and inflammation
• Reduce tension and stiffness
• Ease pain
• Improve range of motion and flexibility

And there’s more good news: the benefits of hot tub hydrotherapy last far beyond your actual immersion time. Dr. Bruce Becker, a leading expert in the field, says people who soak in their spa for 20 minutes a day, can expect to enjoy prolonged pain relief.

Temperature Control

For optimal results, experts recommend those suffering from arthritis keep the temperature of their hot tub a little more moderate — around 100 degrees. The maximum temperature for anyone is 104 degrees.

Stretching

With the warm water increasing blood flow to stiff joints, you’ll have a greater range of motion. This makes it an ideal time to do some stretching. Try doing some ankle circles, leg extensions, arm circles, and shoulder rolls.

You can also try reaching toward your toes. Once you get out of the spa, while your muscles are still warm, you can do some lunges and side bends as well.

Meditation

This mind-body practice is used to promote relaxation, cope with illness and enhance your overall well-being. While relaxing in your spa, why not try some basic meditation techniques?

Start by relaxing the mind and body, and then let go of tension and feelings of frustration and think positive thoughts. By being mindful, you can disrupt the cycle of negativity that pain often brings.

Aromatherapy

Also known as essential oil therapy, aromatherapy is another natural treatment for tension, stress and pain. There are a number of scents that help ease discomfort. One of the best for arthritis, however, is peppermint. This scent can speed circulation, bringing blood more quickly to sore muscles and joints.

Lemon, lemongrass and chamomile are all great options too. With their anti-inflammatory properties, all three scents have been used successfully to relieve pain.

When engaging in hot tub aromatherapy to help ease the symptoms of your arthritis, you should always use spa-friendly products. Using traditional essential oils can disrupt and even damage the water care system in your hot tub.

Outback Pools and Spas

If you’re ready to enjoy all of the benefits hot tub hydrotherapy can offer, come visit us at Outback Pools and Spas.

As your premier provider of quality pools and pool accessories in Wichita Falls, we can help you find the spa that will best meet your needs.