Whether you’re looking to soothe tired muscles, unwind at the end of a long day, or ease some of the symptoms of type 2 diabetes or fibromyalgia, daily hot tub use has been shown to be effective at providing a variety of health benefits. It’s all about the power of water.
8 Health Benefits of Using a Hot Tub
For millennia, people have used water for its therapeutic effects. But it wasn’t until a few years ago that a scientific, evidence-based study on hydrotherapy was completed that outlined the benefits of frequent hot tub use. What did the study show? Check it out:
Hot tub use can minimize arthritis pain.
In the United States, 23% of all adults—over 54 million people—suffer from arthritis.The most common symptoms of arthritis are pain, inflammation and stiffness of the joints, ligaments or tendons. Hot tub use can help reduce these symptoms without the side effects of medication.
Hot tub use can lower blood sugar levels.
The heat in hot tubs helps dilate blood vessels, improving blood flow and allowing more nutrient-rich blood to reach muscles. When that happens, blood sugar levels are reduced. For people with Type 2 diabetes, this is especially helpful. It turns out that regular hot tub use can reduce blood glucose levels for some patients.
Hot tub use can relieve fibromyalgia pain.
That’s because hot tub jets stimulate circulation. As blood flow increases, muscles begin to relax, making it much less painful to move around.
Hot tub use reduces stress and anxiety.
It’s no surprise that hot tubs are relaxing! When we relax endorphins (natural pain killers and mood elevators) are released. That increase in endorphins reduces anxiety and stress, and, as an added bonus, can improve concentration.
Hot tub use improves sleep quality.
The effects of a hot water soak are felt long after it’s over. After a soak, muscles and joints are relaxed. As your body temperature gradually lowers after a soak, all the elements of a peaceful pre-sleep state are in place. A good night’s sleep isn’t far behind.
Hot tub use reduces pain and promotes healing.
Hot tub use is especially helpful for chronic back pain sufferers. Back pain is usually caused by strained muscles and ligaments that support the spine. Soaking in a hot tub counters the force of gravity that’s compressing the joints and ligaments by supporting up to 90% of a body’s weight. Hot tub use aids in the healing of those swollen and inflamed muscles that cause pain.
Hot tub use improves heart health and circulation.
When a person is immersed in hot water, the heart works at a higher capacity and more efficiently. The arteries and veins dilate to carry more blood, and the blood may flow more easily through the body, enhancing circulation. According to the American Journal of Physiology, there may be a 59% increase in blood flow with younger people and a 22% increase with older people.
Hot tub use is beneficial before and after exercise.
A hot water soak is great for promoting flexibility in muscles, allowing for better stretching and helping improve your range of motion either before or after strenuous exertion. Heat therapy helps increase blood flow, stimulate healing, and relax muscles. In fact, you’ll benefit from soaking in the hot tub before and after exercise. It’s also important to note that studies have shown that both heat and cold therapy can promote healing and prevent muscle damage following exercise, helping keep your body durable for your future workout routines.
Not sure where to start with hot tubs?
We have you covered.
We know there’s a lot to consider when you’re buying a hot tub and Mainely Tubs is here to help. We’ve pulled together everything you need to know to be a knowledgeable consumer into our Ultimate Buyer’s Guide.