As we’ve previously mentioned, warm water is one of the oldest medicines in the world, and there is a very good reason for this. Along with being comfortable and pleasurable, research has discovered that warm water therapy works to help relieve the symptoms of a variety of skeletal and muscular complaints, including fibromyalgia, arthritis and a range of back pains.
However, most people that would benefit from warm water therapy often find themselves unable to enjoy it as a result of their mobility problems, which can make entering and exiting a bathtub almost impossible. Thankfully, there are a range of solutions, including bath lifts for the elderly, which can help to solve this issue.
What Is Warm Water Therapy?
As you’re probably able to guess, warm water therapy is the treatment of physical and mobility issues with warm or hot water. There are many reasons why warm water works to alleviate the symptoms of mobility issues. For example, immersing yourself in warm water can reduce the force of gravity that compresses the joint in question, offer complete, 360-degree support for sore limbs, decrease swelling, inflammation and increase general circulation.
On average, a 20 minute bath is enough to offer real benefits, including pain relief and improve the bather’s overall mood. It is also important to remember to drink plenty of water before and after your bath, to ensure that you can remain hydrated. It is also important to ensure that you try to relax during the bath, as any stress can reduce the potential benefits. An effective way to reduce your stress is to ensure that you have a simple and reliable bath lift for the elderly in place.
Top Tips To Make The Most Of Your Next Bath
- Remember To Go Warm, Not Hot – Water temperatures between 33 and 37 degrees Celsius are typically the recommend range. Remember that, if you have heart problems, water any hotter than 37 degrees can put undue pressure on your heart, and water over 40 degrees is considered dangerous for any bather.
- Don’t Just Sit There – Whilst warm water is great for relaxing, it is also good for moving. Warm water stimulates blood flow to stiff muscles and frozen joints, which means that a warm bathtub or a pool is an ideal place to partake in some gentle stretching.
- Add Some Salts! – Most people, in the modern world, fail to have enough magnesium in their body. With that in mind, adding magnesium sulphate crystals, also known as Epsom salts, to your bath can increase the amount of magnesium in the blood.
You should ensure that you only use these salts occasionally, as too much can be dangerous. In the same way, people with diabetes should be aware that high levels of magnesium can effectively stimulate further insulin release.
Bath Lifts For The Elderly, From Bathtime Mobility
Here at Bathtime Mobility, we are proud to offer a diverse range of intelligently designed bath lifts for the elderly and for those with mobility issues. If you’re interested in using warm water therapy to improve your daily life, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with our professional team today on 0800 29 22 110.