According to the Mayo Clinic, “fibromyalgia is a disorder characterized by widespread musculoskeletal pain accompanied by fatigue, sleep, memory and mood issues. Researchers believe that fibromyalgia amplifies painful sensations by affecting the way your brain processes pain signals.
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention reports that “the prevalence of fibromyalgia is about 2%, affecting an estimated 5.0 million adults in 2005”, and that the disorder is more common in women than men.
Can a hot tub help reduce this pain naturally?
According to a study by the University of Duisburg-Essen in Germany, there is some evidence that hydrotherapy can be used as an effective treatment method for pain reduction for those suffering from fibromyalgia.
How does this work?
By soaking in warm water, the body is supported by the water and becomes buoyant, reducing stress on muscles and joints and immediately reducing pain. Warm water and jet pressure can also increase blood flow, helping to nourish body tissues. Ultimately, this combination can lead to increases in “happy hormones”; increased levels of dopamine, serotonin and endorphins interacting with receptors in the brain and leading to feelings of calm, happiness, and having effects similar to painkillers for the body.
A daily routine of one or more 20-30 minute sessions in a hot tub can help fibromyalgia sufferers feel pain relief and continue their normal lives more easily.
