Approximately 53 million people in the United States suffer from some form of arthritis pain according to the CDC. This constant discomfort can limit their ability to enjoy life. Even with medication and other treatments, patients with arthritis often still experience discomfort including joint stiffness, muscle soreness, and more. The good news for these individuals is that there are safe and effective ways to minimize the discomfort.
Soaking in hot water can soothe muscles and joints and improve quality of life. At Wind River Spas in Denver, CO, we design our hot tubs to support both your comfort and your well-being. Our chemical-free tubs are the perfect place to ease pain and make each day a little easier. If you are interested in hydrotherapy for arthritis, our tubs might be the right fit for you.
What Is Arthritis?
Arthritis is a condition of inflammation in the joints that leads to pain, stiffness, and reduced mobility. There are many different types of arthritis including osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis, and each can affect the body in different ways. Arthritis patients can benefit from treatments that reduce inflammation and improve the movement and function of the joints.
Why Arthritis Pain Management Is So Important
- Managing Symptoms: With arthritis, you might have constant symptoms like stiffness, swelling, and joint pain, which can interfere with your mobility and make you continually uncomfortable. Managing your pain can reduce your symptoms so you can go about your day with better function and comfort.
- Preventing Further Joint Damage: Untreated arthritis can worsen joint damage which could increase discomfort and limitations. Soothing your joints can help preserve the health of your joints and keep them moving smoothly for longer.
- Decreasing Dependence on Medications: With self-care like hydrotherapy for arthritis, You may be able to improve your comfort enough to reduce your dependence on medications.
Are Hot Tubs Good for Arthritis?
Hot tubs can be great for arthritis! They combine warmth and buoyancy to create the ideal environment for soothing joint discomfort. The warm water can alleviate stiffness and improve movement without strain. It can be a helpful way to exercise with arthritis or to soothe pain after a busy day.
Relieving Pain and Reducing Stiffness With Heat Therapy
Hot tubs for arthritis provide consistent heat which helps to dilate blood vessels and improve circulation around the affected joints. The increased blood flow can reduce stiffness and encourage your muscles to relax. Any tight muscles surrounding the joints can ease up which relieves pain from muscle tension and also encourages smoother movement of the joints.
Massage Jets: Relief for Sore Muscles and Joints
The jets in your hot tub provide relief for sore muscles and joints through hydromassage. The jets offer just the right amount of pressure and offer benefits that a warm bath cannot. Jets create gentle pulses that reduce muscle tension and loosen up areas around the joints. Our jets are placed at strategic locations to help relax many different areas of the body from the feet and calves to the neck and shoulders.
Buoyancy: Easing Weight on Joints
The buoyancy in your hot tub lessens the weight on your sore joints which can give them relief after a day on your feet. The weightless environment enables gentle stretching without the strain and it helps you engage in light and therapeutic motions that can help to restore movement.
Three Types of Hot Tub Exercises to Help With Arthritis
Range of Motion
Range of motion exercises can be helpful when combined with hydrotherapy for arthritis. These exercises are gentle ways to increase movement and can include movements like shoulder rolls, leg lifts, or ankle circles.
Strengthening
Strengthening exercises can be difficult for those with arthritis. When performed in the water, however, you can build muscle without putting as much stress on your joints. Exercises like bicep curls or leg extensions can be even more effective with the resistance of the water helping to engage your muscles. Over time, these exercises can help stabilize your joints and reduce the strain.
Flexibility
Flexibility exercises include gentle stretches that can be done even more comfortably in the warm water of your hot tub. The warmth helps the muscles and connective tissues to relax which can lead to deeper stretches. As you increase flexibility, you can also reduce tension around your joints and you may be able to move with less stiffness.
Contrast Therapy for Arthritis
According to the Arthritis Foundation, If you have an acute injury or if your arthritis is flaring up, cold may be more beneficial than warmth. Contrast bath therapy alternates between hot and cold water and can also help people with arthritis. We have a contrast therapy tub that offers arthritis sufferers the benefits of hot water on one side and cold water on the other, allowing for an easy transition between the two. In contrast therapy, the heat relaxes stiff joints and increases circulation while the cold reduces inflammation and numbs pain. Going between the two, or choosing just one depending on your symptoms, can help create a better environment for healing.
Considerations for Hot Tub Use for Arthritis
- Ideal Temperature Settings for Arthritis: Keeping the water temperature between 92°F and 100°F can be perfect for arthritis relief. This temperature can soothe pain without overheating your body or your joints.
- Consulting With Your Healthcare Provider: Before incorporating a hot tub into your arthritis management plan, make sure you talk to your doctor. They can determine if hot tub use is appropriate for your specific condition and provide any necessary guidelines.
- Proper Hydration and Soaking Time: Staying hydrated throughout your soak is important since hot tub use can lead to water loss through sweating. Limiting soak time to 15–20 minutes helps prevent dehydration and allows you to enjoy the benefits of hydrotherapy more safely.
Improve Your Comfort and Reduce Pain at Home With Your Hot Tub
Hydrotherapy for arthritis can be a good way to manage pain, improve mobility, and make each day more comfortable. Finding the best hot tub for arthritis relief means choosing one designed with your needs in mind. At Wind River Spas in Denver, CO, we provide hot tubs that are chemical-free to help prevent irritation, and we offer thoughtful designs that make it easier to get in and out of. If you’re ready to experience the benefits of hydrotherapy, you can visit us in our showroom, fill out an online form, or call (303) 789-2656.