We all know that regular exercise is good for us and, as we age, exercising to maintain our flexibility and strength is vital, especially if we have arthritis. Exercising in water is an easy way for anyone with arthritis to keep joints moving, restore and preserve flexibility and protect joints from further damage.
Here’s why water exercise is beneficial in the treatment of arthritis.
Water Exercise is Ideal
- The warmth and buoyance of spa water is a gentle way to exercise joints and muscles, allowing for more freedom of movement
- Immersing in warm water raises the body temperature, which causes blood vessels to dilate, increasing blood circulation
- Water can act as resistance to help build muscle strength
- Spa jets massage tight muscles, helping them to relax
Exercising in a Hot Tub
When you first get into a spa, relax and enjoy the soothing water. Begin your exercise routine slowly, when your muscles and joints feel more relaxed. After exercising, allow enough time for your muscles to relax again before getting out of the water.
Hot Tub Safety
Heat is often recommended for people with arthritis and related conditions but not always. Your doctor will tell you if it is appropriate for you. The benefits of heat include:
- Relaxation of the muscles
- A decrease in pain and stiffness
- Greater ease in exercising and daily activities
When exercising in warm water keep the following tips in mind:
- New hot tub users should vary temperatures and length of stay until they determine what is the most relaxing. They should start slowly and extend their stay in the hot tub as they feel comfortable.
- Besides being unsafe, extremely hot water is not necessary to get results – mild heat is easier for the body to tolerate and just as effective. Water should feel soothing and restful.
- If you are only soaking or doing very gentle exercises sitting in a spa, a slightly higher temperature should be okay.
- For most, soaking time should not exceed 10-15 minutes at temperatures between 98 and 104 degrees F.
- Children and the elderly are more likely to become overheated and may need to limit their time in a hot tub
- If you start to feel lightheaded or nauseated, get out of the water right away.
- If joint pain, swelling or stiffness increase, discontinue use of the hot tub and contact your doctor
- You should also consider whether or not you will need help getting in and out of the spa and have someone on hand to help.
Before Buying a Spa
Before buying a spa, check with your doctor to see if warm water exercise could benefit your type of arthritis. You may also have other medical conditions that could prevent you from using a hot tub.