From physical ailments to maintaining mental health, time in a hot tub can help back pain and make a positive contribution toward your health in many ways. Hydrotherapy (the use of water to relieve pain and treat various medical conditions) could be beneficial to your health, but at the very least soaking in a hot tub is a great way to relax. 

Are Hot Tubs Good for Arthritis and Pain Relief?

In the U.S. alone, over 54 million people suffer from arthritis with symptoms including joint pain, swelling and decreased range of motion. Fibromyalgia is another painful disorder involving chronic pain and fatigue throughout the body. According to one estimate, 80% of all Americans will suffer from lower back pain at some point, which whether chronic or acute, can severely impact quality of life. 

Fortunately for sufferers of arthritis, fibromyalgia and back pain, spending time in a warm bubbly hot tub may provide temporary pain relief. Warm water helps soothe your body by dilating your blood vessels which increases your circulation and brings swelling down. As blood flow increases, your muscles loosen and relax, making it less painful to move around. Dilation and increased circulation can also help folks with diabetes lower their blood sugar levels. 

When you’re in a hot tub, the water supports approximately 90% of your body weight, making you feel weightless and relieving stress from your muscles and joints. Warm water is especially helpful for people with chronic back pain which is often caused by strained muscles and ligaments that support the spine. A hot tub soak counters the force of gravity that’s compressing joints and ligaments, and promotes the healing of swollen and inflamed muscles.

Hot Tubs for Relaxation and Self-Care 

The hectic routines of everyday modern life can be a source of anxiety, but when we take time to relax, endorphins which are natural pain killers and mood elevators are released in our bodies which help reduce feelings of anxiety and stress. Soaking in the morning can help you begin your day feeling rested and focused, while spending time in your tub at night can help you unwind and leave the stress of the day behind.  

Over 130 million Americans suffer from insomnia or other sleep disorders. Lack of sleep can increase feelings of stress, anxiety, frustration and depression while simultaneously reducing your ability to be productive. Hot water decompresses your joints, increases your circulation and lowers your blood pressure and heart rate, which causes you to become drowsy as your body temperature gradually drops after a soak, which can set the tone for a perfect night sleep.

An evening or weekend soak is a perfect time to connect with friends and family. Spending quality time with your loved ones on a regular basis can also help reduce stress and improve your quality of life. Taking a little time each day to ground yourself in a soothing, comfortable place away from life’s many distractions is a wonderful gift that you can give to yourself or your family. If you’re ready to take your self-care to the next level give us a call at 970-879-4390 or contact us here.