Local Community Advertising
Chronic pain, health problems and stress are no fun — no fun at all.
Those who have struggled with issues like arthritis, muscular problems, impactful injuries, stress, anxiety, insomnia and other forms of physical and mental pain often try many strategies to little or no avail. The truth is that there is no one-size-fits-all solution; it varies from person to person, and often requires a combination of different efforts.
There is one solution, however, that has shown promising signs when it comes to offering relief for a variety of health issues. Hydrotherapy, sometimes referred to as hot water therapy, consists of the use of water to improve and manage one’s health. Studies are producing positive results, and some local doctors even recommend hydrotherapy to their patients.
“I advise hydrotherapy for anyone with a chronic musculoskeletal pain issue. The benefits of the support from the water as well as the warm temperature means it’s much easier to stretch and move in a hot tub,” said Dr. Rich Blakemore, a physician at Vintage View Medical in West Kelowna. “I have many patients with arthritis who use a hot tub regularly and they comment how much easier it is to move after being in the tub. Also they say that the pain levels they experience are much less after a hot tub.”
“I would advise anyone with a chronic pain issue, arthritis, muscular issues as well as those in rehab from an injury that they would benefit from using a hot tub for pain relief and to improve flexibility and range of movement,” added Dr. Blakemore, “Also anyone with stress-related issues or anxiety can benefit, as well as those with poor sleep.”
Dr. Blakemore isn’t alone in his enthusiasm for hydrotherapy. Dr. Graham Jenkins of Lighthouse Chiropractic and Integrated Health in Kelowna is also on board, as long as it’s being used properly and as part of a more comprehensive overall strategy.
“Researchers have shown that hot water therapy is helpful for conditions like fibromyalgia, some types of arthritis and many chronic pain conditions (Study 1; Study 2). It has also been shown to help in your overall well-being by reducing stress and anxiety (Study 3),” said Jenkins. “My recommendation is to use common sense; don't overdo it. Most spas have a time recommendation, more is not better.”
“I will often prescribe hot water therapy for clients with limited flexibility, conditions like back and neck pain, even headaches; especially if they have been suffering for a long time (longer than 12 weeks). Hot water therapy helps us increase their joint and muscle mobility and ultimately helps with their recovery,” added Dr. Jenkins. “Typically we see benefits with three hot water therapy sessions per week for about 12 to 20 minutes each time. I also recommend some gentle and specific stretching to the injured area (or the area we are trying to treat) when they are in the hot tub. This can help increase their mobility and flexibility so the work I do in the office is more effective.”
When we asked Dr. Jenkins who could benefit from hydrotherapy, his response was that given the amount of stress the average Canadian is under these days, the question is more ‘who wouldn’t benefit from using a hot tub regularly?’ — again, as long as you’re careful.
“The caution is always for people who may have an underlying cardiovascular problem or during a pregnancy,” said Dr. Jenkins. “The standard recommendation of ‘always asking your doctor’ before you start a hot water therapy strategy is critical advice. As much as I can say most people would benefit from hot water therapy, there are some specific exceptions so we always advise consulting with a qualified health professional before you start.”
“Hot water therapy is part of an overall wellness strategy. If there are underlying biomechanical or neurological issues with your spine, neck or pelvis, it’s important to understand that hot water therapy will not fix that,” added Dr. Jenkins. “Hot water therapy can be a helpful part in rehabilitation, but what that person needs is a thoughtful, intelligent examination with an accurate diagnosis before they move forward.”
One of the best things about hydrotherapy is that, as long as it is being used properly, there should be little to no negative side effects. As well, it can be easily practiced at a spa or gym, or even at home in a shower, bath or better yet, a hot tub as it offers the space to stretch and complete light exercises.
If you're considering purchasing a hot tub to improve your overall health and wellbeing or just as a way to relax, Valley Pool & Spa can help! Contact them for more information.
Valley Pool and Spa is a family-owned company that has been bringing luxury to the lives of Kelowna residents for 45 years, offering pool and hot tub installation, servicing and customization.
NowMedia sponsored content is written and posted in partnership with participating businesses. While NowMedia retains editorial control of sponsored content, the content is created in collaboration with the sponsor.
Local Community Advertising