Hot Tub Arthritis Relief

The CDC estimates that 50 million adults in the United States have some form of arthritis.

Typically treatment for these sufferers means lots of prescription anti-inflammatory medications and painkillers. However, some medications cause side effects, and a natural approach to arthritis relief is becoming more popular.

Simple hot and cold treatments can make a world of difference when it comes to arthritis relief. Long, warm showers or soaks in a hot tub—especially in the morning—helps ease stiffness in your joints. According to The Arthritis Foundation, regular sessions in a hot tub keeps joints moving, preserves strength and flexibility, and also protects your joints from further damage. A hot tub provides warmth, massage, and buoyancy that is necessary to the well-being of arthritis sufferers.

Exercise is also a great way to seek arthritis relief.  It increases strength and flexibility, reduces joint pain, and helps diminish fatigue. However, when stiff and painful joints are keeping you down, the thought of walking around the block or swimming might seem overwhelming. Nevertheless a new wave of workouts is being used by suffers all around the globe and all it requires is a hot tub! Hot tub yoga combines the low impact exercises of traditional yoga with the benefits of water buoyancy. The buoyancy of the water supports and lessens stress on the joints allowing freer movement and deeper stretches. Yoga instructor Susan Atkinson filmed a short video for Swim University, demonstrating some easy yoga poses you can do in your hot tub! Namaste!

NOTE: Before practicing, check with your primary care. Pregnant women should not practice Hot Tub Yoga. Drink plenty of water and stop if you feel dizzy, lightheaded, or sick.