Hot Tubs and Arthritis
If you’ve continually endured the ache of arthritis or gout or have had to watch someone you know and care for suffer with it, you will be delighted to know the Arthritis Foundation highly recommends the medicinal properties of hot tubs and heated swimming pools for people suffering from arthritis or gout.
People with arthritis have a very challenging time moving and by being submerged in warm water, they are able to obtain some relief of some of their pain and are even able to get the previously impossible done; they are able to exercise with minimal discomfort.
As always, with any new pastime, if you are an arthritis or gout sufferer and would like to start enjoying the benefits of exercising in water, please first check with a general practitioner before you make a start.
Once your doctor has said it’s all OK for you to start exercising in a hot tub, let your body get used to the warm water first. This will warm up your muscles and your body in preparation for gentle exercise later on. This is one of the miracles of the hot tub for people with arthritis – not only will they be able to get some exercise in, they will be able to build up some muscle while they are enjoying the freedom of movement. An added bonus is the absolute luxury of soaking in warm water.
It is really important to take things bit by bit when exercising in a hot tub or swimming pool for several reasons;
· Firstly, as with any exercise program, you can strain muscles if you are not suitably warmed up prior to starting.
· Secondly is the fact that it is possible to over exert yourself in a hot tub or pool by doing too much or doing it for too long. You become light in the head and dizzy. Getting to that point won’t help any exercise program, and it can be injurious to your over-all health.
· Thirdly take things easy after you have exercised, keep in mind that now that your muscles have been stretched and worked, it is important to keep them warm for several minutes before getting out of the hot tub to allow your muscles to relax before hitting the cooler air.
For the person who suffers with arthritis, the mere fact that they are able to move with not as much of pain in a hot tub or even a swimming pool is nothing shy of miraculous. Folks with arthritis are in constant pain and a lot of it has to do with the simple fact that there is a gravitational pull to the earth we live on. This is greatly alleviated if they are submerged in water. Warm water is an added benefit because it will also cause the blood vessels to dilate, which will allow for more blood and oxygen to flow to muscles and skin not to mention the heart.
It is an activity, if not followed and practiced properly, that could bring on more problems than were there before. So if you are thinking about getting some exercise in a hot tub where your arthritis will be lessened, don’t forget to talk to your doctor first and follow the guidelines that they give you in order to take the best care of you and where your abilities lie. A little warm water exercising will go a long way on the road to better health.