Tag Archives: heat for joint pain

warm water therapy for joint pain
Monday, November 2 |Arthritis Today Magazine

Use Your Tub to Fight Joint Pain and Stiffness

Soaking in warm water, with or without minerals, is one of the oldest forms of medicine. And there’s good reason why this practice has stood the test of time. Research has shown it works wonders for all kinds of musculoskeletal complaints, including fibromyalgia, arthritis and low back pain.

“Water is wonderful,” says Carol Huegel, a physical therapist with ReQuest Physical Therapy, Gainesville, Fla. Huegel says submersion aids sore joints three ways: It reduces the force of gravity that’s compressing the joint; offers 360-degree support for sore limbs (almost like an Ace bandage); and can increase circulation and decrease inflammation. And Huegel says its moist heat is more penetrating than the dry heat you’d get from a heating pad.

Continue readingUse Your Tub to Fight Joint Pain and Stiffness→

Heat for Joint Pain Relief
Friday, September 4 |Arthritis Today Magazine

Bring on the Heat for Joint Pain Relief

If your joints start to ache after a long day, try warming them up instead of popping a pill. Heat relaxes the muscles around painful joints and increases blood circulation, which can help you feel better fast. When a hot bath or shower isn’t convenient, try one of these options.

Electric Heating Pad

How It Works: Plug it in, wrap in cloth, apply for 20 minutes.

Best For: “They’re one of the best ways to heat a large body part – a hip, back, shoulder, knee – especially before activities like stretching,” says Doreen M. Stiskal, PhD, department of physical therapy chair at Seton Hall University in South Orange, New Jersey.

Pros: They’re easy to use and store; heat up quickly.

Continue readingBring on the Heat for Joint Pain Relief→