Hot Tubs and Swim Spas for Arthritis
Arthritis is a condition that causes joint pain. There are several types of arthritis, but the two most common are osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Osteoarthritis is a degenerative condition that worsens as you age, and rheumatoid arthritis is an autoimmune condition. Despite their differences, both forms of arthritis can cause symptoms such as inflammation, limited range of motion, and stiff joints. There is no cure for arthritis, but there are some treatments that can help ease symptoms, including hot tubs.
Let’s look at what the research says about using hot tubs to reduce pain connected to osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis.
Hot Tubs and Rheumatoid Arthritis
Hot water therapy helps ease joint pain associated with arthritis because it increases blood flow, delivering more oxygen and nutrients to affected areas. Spending time in your hot tub can also ease pain and stiffness associated with rheumatoid arthritis (more on that below).
Hot Tubs and Osteoarthritis
Research also shows what anyone who has ever used a hot tub understands — spending time soaking helps people relax their body and mind. It has also been shown to decrease pain in patients with both osteoarthritis and rheumatoid arthritis. Studies show that hot tubs help decrease both pain and stiffness in arthritis-inflicted joints.
While heat treatment is a pleasant and relaxing way to support aching joints, there are also cold water therapies that help improve arthritis pain.
Swimming and Arthritis
Swimming can be a great exercise for people with arthritis. Because the exercise helps build strength with little-to-no impact, swimming has been shown to help reduce joint pain and stiffness, and improve movement capabilities.
Aquatic Exercise and Arthritis
Another treatment that has been shown to be effective for reducing arthritic pain is aquatic exercise. Strengthening the muscles around joints can help those impacted by arthritis, but traditional exercise might place too much pressure on the inflamed joints and become too painful. Working out in the pool can help strengthen muscles and reduce the painful symptoms of arthritis.
Cold Therapy and Arthritis
Treatment with icy cold water can help reduce inflammation in joints plagued by arthritis. Both local treatments on painful joints and cold water immersion can help. Studies observed improvements in mobility, pain, energy, and emotional well-being in patients with degenerative diseases like osteoarthritis.
Combination swim spas offer the best of both worlds, with a small pool for swimming and exercising alongside a hot tub for relaxation and pain relief. Click here to view our endless pool options and check out our hot tubs here. Any of the experts at Hot Water Productions at 2511 S. Townsend Ave in Montrose, Colorado, can help you find the right spa for your family.