Pain management is one of the most important parts of modern medicine, and for good reason. Whether you’re fighting arthritis, dealing with fibromyalgia, recovering after a marathon or just searching for a way to relax your muscles, tendons, bones and mind, hot tubs have an important role to play. There are several ways in which hot tub use can relieve your arthritis and fibromyalgia pain, as many sufferers have already discovered.

WARM WATER VERSUS PAIN

Soaking in a warm tub of water is soothing on sore joints and muscles for a variety of reasons. First, the pressure normally placed on joints is immediately reduced thanks to the buoyancy of the water, making that ailing limb seem as light as air. Secondly, the warm temperature of the water in the hot tub increases blood circulation to the affected area, bringing oxygen and nutrients that are essential for natural healing. On top of these great benefits, the hot tub environment also provides a range of support angles for whichever part of you is hurting.

HOT TUB THERAPY FOR ARTHRITIS

Warm temperatures will help the blood flow more easily through your muscles and bones, helping to remove plaque that causes stiffness and pain. For this reason, a warm soak coupled with stretching and movement of the affected joints is ideal.

Using your hot tub to deal with arthritis will target two basic elements of your illness: pain, and movement therapy. Doctors and physiotherapists recommend warming those aching muscles and bones in water that is no higher than 104 degrees Fahrenheit, then doing some gentle stretching and movement exercises. Keep ailing joints and bones flexible by working with them daily. This is made especially easy when suspended in the hot tub.

Soaking in your hot tub is also a great way to soak up some extra magnesium via Epsom salts. Magnesium is important for bone and heart health, and statistics show that most Americans are not getting enough of it.

HOT TUB THERAPY FOR FIBROMYALGIA

Fibromyalgia doctors recommend three basic courses of action as a basic defence against the pain that comes with this disease: exercise, sleep and a positive attitude. As with other types of pain management, warmth and gentle stretching are always recommended.

It’s important to keep your body toned and fit, since this way it will resist further degradation by the disease, and more pain in the future. As well as assisting with physical therapy, your hot tub can actually help you to get a better rest and stay mentally positive. An hour or two before you want to go to bed, get in for a warm and relaxing soak, and do your exercises. When finished, towel off and wait at least half an hour for your body to cool down again before getting into bed. This process helps many people to get a comfortable and full night’s sleep.

As for helping to bolster your positive mental outlook, try to use your hot tub as a stress-free, fully relaxing environment. Use manufacturer-approved scents and salts in the tub to help get you into a “spa” state of mind, and put on some music that helps you to relax.

Your hot tub can get you on track to better health!