According to the New South Wales Arthritis and Osteoporosis Organization, hydrotherapy is one of the most effective ways to treat and manage the two conditions: arthritis and osteoporosis. Apart from carrying out the special exercises in warm pools in hospitals and other health facilities, you can create the same atmosphere at home in the comfort of your bathroom. Special tubs are available for that.
A normal freestanding bath would not be as effective because the water loses its heat. The optimum temperature, according to the same organization, is 34 degrees Celsius. At this temperature, the taut muscles are relaxed. Customized tubs supply water maintained at the optimum temperature that is best for treatment.
The type of bath that would be most suitable is the hot tub. It will constantly jet water at a particular temperature and maintain it at that for as long as the patient needs. The only adjustment you need to make is add a ramp, or modify it to match that of an accessibility bath. This way, you make it easy for the patient to get in and out of the bath themselves. Also, given that the water is not replaced, have safe government approved sanitizing chemicals ready, and where possible, a supervisor to see the patient through the sessions.
Considering the users of these special baths, you may have to go the extra mile to make their usage comfortable. Consider getting bathtub pillows, bath chairs and handles. The drain plugs should also be at a comfortable height so the patient does not have to bend too much.
Whirlpool Tubs
The USA's National Arthritic Foundation endorses whirlpool tubs as invaluable for hydrotherapeutic purposes. They are able to give intensive massages to relieve aching joints and muscles. Being portable, you can have it with you if ever you were to move to a new home.
Air Baths
In this type of bath, air bubbles produced from holes at the bottom of the tub provide the massaging action. It is less intense than that of a whirlpool tub, but with the same effect. Both of them boost blood circulation to the joints and restore muscle function. Accessories like cushioned headrests and armrests that will make the baths even more comfortable.
Drift Bath
Like the name suggests, these baths are designed for the user to 'float' on them and let the 'current' drift them. The standard conditions for hydrotherapy are maintained. There is less movement in this kind of tub. Bubbles of water create the current. The effect is healing and relaxing at the same time.
Like with all other tubs, you can choose from a wide range of colors, sizes and shapes according to your preferences. Heavier baths may come in standard sizes. Regarding shapes, rectangular baths tend to leek sleeker than ovate ones.
Much as these baths are intended for those with certain medical conditions, temporary problems like sore muscles can be quickly done away with by dipping in one of these tubs. Make sure your supplier's products are approved by professional medical bodies.
Mr. Babak Tavakoli works at ACS Designer Bathrooms. The firm supplies special high grade baths for hydrotherapeutic purposes. Their products combine functionality and style quite beautifully, visit ACS Designer Bathrooms free standing bath product webpage .
