Arthritis affects over 52.5 million adults in the United States, and it is estimated that by 2030, this number will reach 67 million. And with over 100 different known kinds of arthritis, it is likely this number will continue to increase. If you suffer from any kind of arthritis or muscle soreness, you understand that someday just getting out of bed can be painful. Fortunately, there are ways to naturally decrease arthritis pain, including warm water therapy.
Arthritis and Warm Water Therapy
Doctors have been using warm water therapy for years to treat arthritis naturally. Some doctors recommend a combination of warm water therapy and exercise for their patients. Studies of patients with arthritis show that when they have soaked in a hot tub for 20-30 minutes, their pain has decreased as much as 40%, and their physical movements have increased. Doctors recommend that the water temperature be anywhere between 92 and 100 degrees. The U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission says that anything over 104 degrees is dangerous, for everyone.
In addition to warm water therapy, you may also consider dietary supplements or certain foods that have been shown to help those suffering from arthritis. For example, supplementing your diet with Omega-3 fatty acids (found in fish oil and other food), Glucosamine, or Turmeric Curcumin can help relieve arthritis symptoms.
Why Does Warm Water Therapy Work for Arthritis Pain?
The buoyancy of water and the soothing warmth of a hot tub is an ideal environment for relieving arthritis pain and stiffness. The water buoyancy will help to make you feel lighter, with up to 90 percent of your body weight supported by the water. Also, the water allows for gentle 360 degrees of movement that can increase range of motion and flexibility. Some hot tubs offer resistance equipment which will help build stronger muscles and strength without putting pressure on joints.
Many doctors encourage their patients to stretch while soaking in the warm water, and even after. The warm water loosens up muscles and allows for a greater range of motion, which is especially helpful for those with stiff and painful joints.
Whether you are looking to gain greater range of motion, speed up recovery time, or relieve arthritis pain, there are many benefits of a hot tub and warm water therapy. If you’d like to learn more, contact us at (317) 773-3545. We look forward to serving you!
Sources:
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2015, March 11) Arthritis Data and Statistics. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/arthritis/data_statistics/.
Arthritis Foundation. (n.d.). Warm Water Works Wonders on Pain. Retrieved from https://www.arthritis.org/living-with-arthritis/pain-management/tips/warm-water-therapy.php.