Hot Tub Benefits and Arthritis Relief

"The soothing warmth and buoyancy of warm water makes it a safe, ideal environment for relieving arthritis
pain and stiffness," notes the Arthritis Foundation. "Immersing in warm water raises your body temperature,
causing your blood vessels to dilate and increasing circulation." This results in less swelling and pain, and
increases mobility—a clear benefit for the one in five Americans with arthritis. In fact, soaking in a hot tub
may provide gain without pain. A study by Australian researchers, published by the Arthritis Foundation in
June 2007, reports "significant improvements in pain and function" in patients with knee and hip
osteoarthritis—the most common types— who underwent one-hour, twice-weekly hot tub treatments for 12
weeks. Interestingly, the researchers say that the improvements from hot tubbing were similar to those seen
in other older OA patients they tracked who practiced a similarly timed regimen of tai chi, the ancient Chinese
martial art often recommended to improve flexibility and movement.

Warm Water Therapy
Warm water therapy is a proven method for successfully dealing with the stiffness and pain experienced by
those who have a musculoskeletal condition. The therapy involves gently moving through the water. The
water level is at chest height. The water supports the body so you can exercise virtually pain free. The
exercise has the benefit of keeping the joints moving and reduces stiffness.

Soothing Arthritis Pain
Approximately 43 million people in the United States suffer from some form of arthritis pain. The good news
for these victims is that there are safe and effective ways to both minimize the discomfort and prevent further
damage.

According to a publication from The Arthritis Foundation, Spas, Pools, and Arthritis, "Regular sessions in
your hot tub helps keep joints moving. It restores and preserves strength and flexibility, and also protects
your joints from further damage. Exercise can also improve a person's coordination, endurance, and the
ability to perform daily tasks, and can lead to an enhanced sense of self-esteem and accomplishment... A hot
tub fulfills the need perfectly... providing the warmth, massage, and buoyancy that is so necessary to the
well-being of arthritis sufferers. The buoyancy of the water supports and lessens stress on the joints and
encourages freer movement. Water exercises may even act as a resistance to help build muscle strength."

According to a pamphlet printed by The Arthritis Foundation, Exercise and Your Arthritis, "Doctors and
therapists know that people with Arthritis can improve their health and fitness through exercise without
hurting their joints." The Arthritis Foundation further states that "Doctors frequently prescribe soaking in a
hot tub first thing in the morning, before beginning daily activities. Many arthritis sufferers find this time of
day to be most painful and stiffness is at its worst." A quick dip in your hot tub will help you to move through
the rest of your day with comfort and ease.

Owning a hot tub could mean 365 days of relief from those who suffer from Arthritis... it's like having your
own personal masseuse!