There’s something magical about lying in a warm tub and feeling your worries just melt away; but did you know that hot tubs can help tackle the physical pains we have, too?
From helping us sleep better to easing those aching muscles, the potential health benefits could be even bigger than you think. After all, it doesn’t have to be all about just switching off with a glass of bubbles in the evening sun (although, we’d argue you never need an excuse to do just that!).
So, if you are wondering how a hot tub could make a deeper impact in your life, we’ve outlined some of those common injuries and ailments that might benefit from some regular hot tub therapy.
1. Sore muscles
If exercising is a big part of your life, or you work a particularly physical job, you’re probably no stranger to sore muscles.
However, the hot water and massage action of a hot tub can be an effective way to relax tight or sore muscles, and soothe the pain away.
This is because the hot water increases blood flow to the skin and muscles which aids the recovery process. In fact, it’s this increase that not only helps muscles recover, but also prevents stiffness and promotes joint homeostasis. This means it’s also great for preventing sore muscles in the first place!
2. Chronic pain relief
Some types of chronic pain can be somewhat relieved by hot water, helping to relax tendons, muscles and joints. The massage action of a hot tub can also add extra benefits to this, by targeting a specific area of the body.
For example, people with arthritis may find that the heat and jet action of the tub can help ease stiffness and inflammation which causes pain.
Another part of this is down to the way water supports the body and takes the weight off the joints, which helps to improve flexibility and range of motion.
3. High blood pressure
High blood pressure can be a common problem, particularly in older people, so keeping an eye on cardiovascular health can become increasingly important.
Interestingly, a 2016 study found that hot water immersion can have a ‘robust’ effect on this area of concern, raising heart rate and reducing blood pressure. Another study found that even just ten minutes of soaking can have an impact on lowering blood pressure.
If this is something you suffer with, time in the hot tub on a day-to-day basis could play a big part in this area of health management.
4. Poor sleep
Research has suggested that relaxing with a soak can have an impact on how well you sleep – in a good way – which means a hot tub might be just what you need to switch off before bed.
There are a couple of reasons for this, from the muscle-melting relaxation which can ease those aches and pains, to the mental health benefits which include reducing things like anxiety and stress – common things that keep us up at night.
However, it could also be down to the increase and drop in body temperature. As your body cools post-soak, things like heart rate will slow down, which increases the feeling of drowsiness.
It’s this culmination that can go a long way to helping have those deeper, body-repairing sleeps that allow us to wake up refreshed for a new day.
5. Post-surgery recovery
For those who have recently undergone surgery, getting movement back isn’t always an easy process, especially if weight-bearing if a problem.
In a hot tub, the recovery process could potentially be sped up, as they can help to increase joint movement and increase muscle strength without having to put weight down on the painful area.
However, it’s important to note that you should consult a doctor before jumping back in post-surgery, just in case (especially if you’re still recovering from open surgical wounds and stitches).
5. Finding your perfect hot tub
If you’ve got a particular ailment or injury that you’re hoping to treat with some hot tub therapy, it important to make sure you’re getting the right one for you.
For example, you may be looking for something that has jet functions to target a specific area, or a tub that has more space to allow you to move freely and flex those achy joints - so don’t be scared to shop around.
Here at Just Hot Tubs, though, we could have exactly what you need to help you manage those common symptoms and get back to enjoying everyday life and activities.
Not sure how to get started? Don’t hesitate to get in touch or come on down to one of our showrooms to explore our different options.
