Categories: Hot Tub Maintenance

Full List of Hot Tub Health Benefits – According to Doctors And Researchers

Our fast-paced lives of today are quite strenuous. Almost everyone in today’s world is striving to earn money, balance work and home life, maintain a social presence, stay healthy, and manage their time. In all the fuss and stress, everyone needs a personal gateway where they can relax and enjoy a quiet time-out – a hot tub provides exactly that.

What are the health benefits of hot tubs? Are any contraindications you must know about?

Any hot tub can be dangerous to your health if it is cared for incorrectly. Beware of mistakes and make sure to get only benefits from your hot tub. Find out more in our guide.

Hot tub advantages

There are numerous proven health benefits of a hot tub if you start soaking yourself in a hot tub every day. Below is an evidence-based guideline that will tell you all about the numerous health benefits of the hot tub, and these are not just self-proclaimed facts, all these things are backed by doctors and scientific research.

General health benefits of a hot tub

1. Stretching your lower back and hips

F G Thomson asserts that hot tubs are good for releasing body aches like pain in the lower back and hips. Water is so perfectly warmed up and works wonders on loosening up tight muscles and other body joints.


Empava Spa — Best For 2 Persons (read research)
Ferdy Bali Spa — Best For One Person (read research)


William D. Bandy and Barbara Sanders opine that water therapy will also help your body release toxins. In this way, the benefits of hot springs will help you in getting relief for lower back pain. This therapy makes a world of difference. If you are going through a lot of pain, Andrea Bates and Norm Hanson suggest reaping the benefit of performing multiple stretches in a hot tub.

2. Stress and anxiety

Christina Clark talks about the neuromuscular benefits of soaking yourself in hot water, as it reduces stress and anxiety. It is best to have hydrotherapy in warm water as it increases the chances for a happy and healthy life.

In addition to the atmosphere, there are many more ways to improve it. Below is only a small example of such additions. Just be careful, not all additions that are suitable for traditional baths are suitable for a hot tub.

3. Injury

Caroline Wilbert says that immersion, heat, and vibration of all jets can have biological, sensory effects that are useful for people with injuries and pain.

4. Sleep

Due to lack of sleep, you start feeling nervous and groggy. It will also cause erratic mood swings. Don Riling talks about researchers that have found that insomnia is a result of a hectic and stressful lifestyle. Relaxing in a hot tub can help you to have a powerful sleep.


Discover: The Best and The Worst Hot Tubs Under 500


5. Hot tub for sore muscles

If you are suffering from sore muscles, then soaking in a hot tub is one of the best ways of getting rid of them. Yeda Gabilan and fellow researchers emphasize the benefits of aquatic physiotherapy for muscle pain and stiffness. A hot tub helps to soothe aches and pain while eradicating muscle discomfort.

6. Hot tub muscle recovery

If you start exercising like long distancing running or weight lifting, then you might need to have muscle recovery. Antonio Cuesta-Vargas with other researchers has researched hydrotherapy as a recovery strategy; they assert that a combination of warm water in the hot tub makes it easier to keep going with exercise and you can meet your fitness goals easily.

8. Weight loss

There are multiple useful strategies that can help to lose weight. If you want to lose weight, you must follow some essential lifestyle changes. However, most of these strategies involve some level of discomfort like extensive exercise, abstaining from favorite foods; however, the hot tub is an easy and discomfort-free weight loss strategy. Generally, people ask “do saunas make you lose weight?” and the simple answer is YES, they do!

Glenn says that an infrared sauna or hot tub can aid with weight loss as it will relax your muscles and increase respiration. The more restful sleep, the easier it will be to reach your ideal weight. This works so well when you take a long soak after running or exercise; this makes it easy to achieve your weight loss goal.

Ilanit Weigenfeld-Lahav and three other researchers have pointed out the physical and psychological impacts of physical therapy including the hot tub’s ability to reduce your appetite by soaking in the hot tub for 20 minutes before a meal. You will find yourself less hungry and your body starts heating up, resulting in lesser food consumption. You will be inclined to drink more water which keeps your stomach full. Charushila Biswas further adds that there are a couple of exercises that further help you to reduce weight:

  • Front shoulder stretch:

You can stretch your shoulders with both hands. Just dip your hips low while holding on with your hands.

  • Work your core:

You can have a strong grip with both hands and bring your knees up to the chest. You can get relaxed while keeping your back straight and shoulders downwards.

  • Leg Kicks:

You can bend your knees at a 90-degree angle and lift it towards the surface of the water.

Specific health conditions treatment

The hot tub is considered a symbol of luxury. It is purely about indulgence! I designed the jets in the hot tub which helps to soothe aching muscles. The heat of water also helps to open blood vessels. My team pays careful attention while designing to ensure all-out therapeutic advantages of the hot tub.

I design hot tubs keeping in mind their utility for some specific treatments of medical conditions, chronic pains, and some mental issues. Following is a list of some conditions that can be treated by using hot tubs:

1. Fibromyalgia

Fibromyalgia is a disorder that results in discomforts like pain and stiffness. This disease makes it difficult for an individual to move. Relief begins with warm water; it has a greater effect on women than men. Many doctors try different medications in order to treat this disease. Giacomo, Sara, Emanuele, and Antonella summarized that the best place to get relief from fibromyalgia is in a hot tub. A single dip in a hot tub is a superb way to melt all tensions and stress. Hence there are many advantages of bathing in a hot tub.

This pain and discomfort from fibromyalgia may last for a long time, but the effective relief is as close as your backyard spa. With the help of regular hydrotherapy of this disease, the patient may enjoy:

  1. Pain relief for long term
  2. Great sense of calm
  3. Optimum blood circulation
  4. Reduction in point pain

A hydrotherapy study found out that consistent use of hot tubs improves overall wellbeing and increase energy levels. A sense of increased vitality is seen in people who are fond of soaking in the hot tub before sports. Another study was conducted in Germany on hot tub advantages and disadvantages and according to the results, hydrotherapy can be used as an effective method for those who are suffering from fibromyalgia.

2. Lower back pain

According to research estimate, 80% of people suffer from lower back pain at one point or the other in their life. It can have a severe impact on the quality of life and cause sleep loss. Chirotrust also indicates that hydrotherapy has a positive impact on the people suffering from lower back pain.

This is an easy way to get rid of that annoying pain in the lower back; in a hot tub, elevated heat enters all areas of the body including upper and lower back as well as shoulders. A single dip can provide instant relief. I have designed a variety of powerful jets that result in accumulating multiple benefits of hot springs. Customized hot tub massages also ease mobility and decrease the need for other medications. Robyn Whalen further adds that warm water promotes optimal blood circulation and diminishes pain sensory signals.

3. Decrease anxiety

If you have spent your day stressed out by your hectic routine, all you need is to soak in a hot tub to get rid of all the stress. Jacuzzi also agrees that while you are immersed in a hot tub, nothing matters more than how good you start feeling. It basically helps to balance your nervous system. Samantha Lauriello further adds that immersion boosts the release of the hormone. Dopamine is released by the nervous system in our bodies to fight with the effects of harmful stress.

4. Headache, fatigue, migraine

The one who is suffering from migraine knows that its worse than just a headache. There are many symptoms like feeling dizzy, nausea, pain on one side of the head and many others. Stress causes muscle tension which can result in a painful migraine.

To get relief from migraine and other headaches, you should soak yourself for at least five minutes (the longer the better); then take a cold compress and place it on your forehead for some time. After completing this process, return to soak in jets with cold compression application. You can continue this exercise for a few minutes and the alternating hot and cold water to lessen the intensity of your migraine.

5. Arthritis

With the chronic pain of arthritis, it can be very difficult to find an effective treatment. But for rheumatoid arthritis, health benefits of hot tub and hydrotherapy is highly recommended. Research of Khanjari and Ameri also state that bubbling water has no side effects.

According to the research by Franke, Reiner, Pratzel, Franke, Resch, 43 million people in the US are suffering from arthritis. The silver lining in the cloud is that damage can be prevented through natural ways without surrendering to a lifetime of medication. The patient can have regular sessions in the hot tub which keeps the joint moving.

Furthermore, there are a lot of exercises that are best for arthritis patients and can be performed in a hot tub; these may include leg lifting, leg curls, and bicycle kicks. If you find some difficulty to keep your balance, you can also go for a floatation belt while performing leg movements.

6. High blood pressure

When you enter the hot tub, just set your stopwatch for fifteen minutes and then check your blood pressure. As your heart starts beating, it pushes blood through your arteries and sometimes your arteries get blocked up with fatty deposits. This causes obstruction and can also damage organs. These orders lead to blood pressure issues.

Researchers Shin, Wilson and Wilson also highlight the fact that hot tubs can help get rid of blood pressure complications. Numerous medical studies show that ten minutes in the hot tub are totally safe for the treatment of hypertension.

Most of the doctors say that YES, hot tubs are considered absolutely safe with respect to patients suffering from blood pressure. However, Lorna Collier says that you just need to be a little careful if you are going through any other heart disease.

Hot tub and heart conditions

If you have a heart condition, it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying hot tub advantages – all you need to do is to be careful while soaking in it. Medical experts Cameron and George Knapp say that sudden immersion in hot water may lead your body to heat up and start stressing your heart. So, awareness is very important to keep you safe while soaking.

  1. Control water temperature.
  2. Must limit your exposure in hot water
  3. It is best to stay hydrated

Diabetics and Hot tub

Laura Isaac states that researches prove that it can help to control your diabetes. As the hot water increases the temperature the body stimulates the natural cooling mechanism. The increase in blood flow is one of the amazing health benefits of soaking in a hot tub, especially if you are unable to exercise.

Other studies show that hot tub reduces blood glucose level in people suffering from diabetes. While you are taking a look at these health benefits of a hot tub, also see what Dr. Anthony Jay has to say about the advantages of bathing in a hot tub:

Source: YouTube

Be aware of your insulin

You should be especially aware of hot tubs side effects if you take insulin. It’s better to remove an insulin pump before entering in hot water tub; the body starts absorbing insulin due to heat. It’s so important to stay hydrated and keep your temperature in check to get maximum advantages of bathing in a hot tub.

As per the medical studies, it might be a way to beat diabetes. A journal published in England indicated that hot tub therapy helps out a group of adults who are having type 2 diabetes. It improves sleep patterns and lowers blood sugar levels.

Questions to the expert

What are hydrotherapy tubs?

The most general reason for buying a hot tub is the health benefits of a hot tub. Hydrotherapy is basically a practice of using heated water for pain relief. My team of researchers helps me design hot tubs that promote health with hydrotherapy.

Laura Howe MD explains that hydrotherapy is the external use of water for treating certain diseases and conditions. Cider Asa and fellow researchers say that hydrotherapy involves the use of hot water for soothing or speeding the recovery of muscles and rheumatic diseases as well. Paul Ingraham proclaims that you can also have a therapeutic massage that can ensure that your massage is gentle, and the jets give you the perfect relaxation feeling.

Should I buy a hot tub in the first place?

Many people ask me about hot tub advantages and disadvantages, as they are struggling with the question: should I get a hot tub?

Using a hot tub does not bring any negative side effects. There are countless reasons for buying a hot tub, but here are the top 10 reasons.


Still thinking, “Should I Buy a Hot Tub?” – read 10 reasons from an expert why you definitely should


Health benefits of hydrotherapy were well-known since the 19th century: George Knapp Abbott says in “Principles and Practice of Hydrotherapy for Students and Practitioners of Medicine” that a spa can become a healthy part of your daily routine. Dr. Currie of Liverpool, England suggests that hydrotherapy is best before work in the morning as it helps you to get prepared for a busy day.

One of the prime jacuzzi benefits is that it helps in stress reduction and it will not cause any side effects. Warm water raises the body temperature and helps to dilate blood vessels and increase blood circulation. The buoyancy of the water takes all the weight off your joints and you feel so much relaxed.

If you want to unwind from all the pressures mounting on you, you need to spend just 15 minutes in a hot tub, every morning or night. If you are feeling stress and tension, it will all seep out from your body as you slide down into it. Just let the combination of warm water, benefits of hot spring and the natural buoyancy of water work its magic.

Historical picture of a hot tub

Hot tub health myths and facts

Here are some myths and facts related to hot tubs that can help you solve the dilemma of “should I buy a hot tub?”

MythsFacts
Electricity bill jumps up super high with hot tub.True, but it depends on usage and the increased bill is worth the ease you get.
Hot tubs do not require any maintenance at all.Hot tubs do require maintenance and cleaning.
You need harsh commercial chemicals to clean a hot tub.You can use the swimming pool chlorine tablets to keep the water clean and fresh.
Hot tubs are super-hot and can cause skin burns and irritation.Hot tubs come with a temperature regulator so you can maintain temperature according to your preference.

What does a hot tub consist of?

A layman might think that hot tub is just a home pool filled with hot water, but in reality, I design hot tubs with so many features to make it as pleasurable as possible. It has multiple features like lights, music and temperature setting that will help you to dissolve your worries and get utmost benefits of hot springs. Even with all the customization and enhancements, it is very simple to use as a control panel can be used to activate 170 high-powered bubble jets; it results in a refreshing massage.

How to prevent the possible dangers of the hot tub?

I advise the customers that the chemicals used in hot tubs can be dangerous if they are not handled correctly. Mostly hot tubs use chlorine which has links to cause asthma if it is inhaled or absorbed. While it is important to know what health benefits does a jacuzzi have, it is also equally important to know the precautions that users should take:

  1. Make sure to get a commercial model, not a domestic one.
  2. It must be visibly clean and with a chemical disinfectant to keep the water safe.
  3. Harvard Health Publishing recommends that a hot tub should not be used for more than 10 to 15 minutes at one time.
  4. Never exceed the maximum number of people listed as it creates undue pressure on the tub and filtration system.
  5. Paul Abbot suggests avoiding getting in a hot tub after eating.
  6. Also, do not drink or smoke in a hot tub.

What temperature should a hot tub be?

While a hot tub is a great way to relax from all worries and strains, the question arises that what temperature should a hot be? I recommend that 98.6 F is best for average normal body temperature. If the temperature exceeds, then you might be in danger of developing several problems like:

  • Heat rash
  • Cramps
  • Exhaustion
  • Heat strokes

How often to change hot tub water?

It is very important to change the water in your hot tub as it helps to maintain the cleanliness of the water. Changing the water is all about how often you use and how many people are in it. As a general rule of thumb, I recommend that water must be changed every 6 to 8 weeks to reap maximum hot tub health benefits.

Here are some factors that will help you to determine the frequency of changing the water in a hot tub:

  1. Usage
  2. Filtration and purification system
  3. Initial water quality
  4. Frequency of usage
  5. Number of people who use it

What are the advantages of a seawater hot tub?

Saltwater hot tubs provide an outclass experience in relaxation and great support in acquiring an active lifestyle. Reviews at Consumer Affairs state that they are simple to maintain and provide a lot of hot tub benefits. Saltwater hot tubs can improve your health in three major areas:

  • Even deeper relaxation:

Saltwater hot tub feels so soft and after you soak you will start experiencing the benefits of rejuvenating properties.

  • Chemical-free spa:

This can make your hot tub more natural for everyday use. Just add salt to your water for lesser chances of the skin or eye irritation, and there is no need for commercial or harsh chemicals.

  • Convenience:

In saltwater hot water tub, a small number of natural chlorine molecules are produced. They deactivate all toxins before being recycled back. There is no need to add extra chlorine or other chemicals in your spa.

What’s better than a hot tub or a sauna?

Hot tubs and saunas are offering related functions as they provide heat to the body for comfort and therapeutic purposes. Harvard Men’s Health Watch claims that both help to alleviate muscle soreness and pains. They are considered great places to relax and to spend quality time. Regardless if it is an indoor Jacuzzi, hot water and steam work together to soothe your body and mind.

Here are some pros and cons of Sauna and Hot tub that will help you decide if hot tubs are good for you:

SaunaHot tub
Pros:
Affordable in terms of material
Better for skin cleansing
Improves immune system
Induces deep sleep
Energy efficient
Easy to maintain
Pros:
Easier to install
Installation cost is affordable
Best for sore muscles
Induces deep sleep
Reduces blood sugar levels

Cons:
Installation cost is high
Not suitable for pregnant women
Not easy to install
Need interior space in the home
Cons:
Material cost is high
Requires proper maintenance
Not suitable for children and pregnant women
Indoor hot tubs require complex installation

Do saunas make you lose weight?

Most people wonder if a hot and steamy sauna helps to lose weight. And that is a big YES. Sara Hardyal says that all you need to do is relax and enjoy the traditional bath in warm water and sweat it out. Numerous researches have proven that soaking in a sauna or hot tub helps to take off your inches.

Easy to sweat off weight?

When you are in a sauna, you experience sweating. The temperature basically causes your heart rate to increase as if you are doing an exercise; the sauna may be able to help you burn some extra calories. This is an effective tool for real weight loss. Enjoying the sauna is such a good addition to your fitness routine and it can be very enjoyable.

Hot tubs and children – are they safe?

Hot tubs are totally fun, but the question arises that is it safe to take children in a hot tub? Yes, the kids can also have fun with their families. You can even get baby jacuzzi tubs. All you need to do is to keep an eye on water temperature and enjoy. Amanda also adds that being a parent (or grandparent) it is your duty to keep them safe while using a hot tub. So, make sure that your toddler in the hot tub is completely safe while enjoying the water bubbles.

According to a customer review by PinkButterfly1: “Very strong, looks amazing, plenty of room for the grandchildren and the adults. Got a surprise with the additional cushions. Overall fantastic.”

When your children start using a hot tub, you should decrease the temperature and set it to approximately 102 degrees to avoid any hot tub side effects. This is a harmless setting and better for children with their sensitive skin. Sensory Edge suggests that children who are in pre-teens may relax for 20 minutes at a time, while younger ones should be allowed for 5 or 10 minutes.

Can you get pregnant in a hot tub?

The water does not prevent pregnancy in any way if you have sex underwater in a hot tub. That being said, it must be noted that sperm count does lower when you have been in the water for more than 30 minutes, so the chances of pregnancy do get lower.

While many people are fond of sex in water or hot tubs, Dawn Stacey is of the opinion that chances of getting pregnant in a hot tub are the same as any other dry place. however, there is no possibility that someone can get pregnant by losing sperms in the water. It is also to be noted that chemicals used in pools and some hot tubs can diminish the sperms thus lowering the chances of pregnancy.

Many pregnant females ask their doctors if they can go in a hot tub while they are pregnant. It is absolutely safe to do so!

Will health insurance pay for a hot tub?

There are some insurance companies that will pay for your hot tub, but it does not include installation and other costs. The hot tub is basically a luxury and it is not related to the medical expenses at all. Ted Ratliff says health insurance may cover some part of the purchasing cost of a hot tub.

While many people hold the opinion that a hot tub is a luxury item, looking at these health benefits of soaking in a hot tub, I would say that it is a well-deserved necessity for anyone who can afford it.

Summary

Hot Tub is not just a source of relaxation; there is a number of hot tub health benefits too. If you have your own hot tub at home, a soothing soak can be a smart way to start reaping a multitude of health benefits.

Ever since the beginning of history, the healing powers of water have been to use to enhanced vigor and reduce pain. Our busy lives truly deserve some spa therapies. This has taken great importance as it an effective way to relax and reduce stress.

There are numerous proven health benefits of a hot tub if you start soaking yourself in a hot tub every day. Most people use spas for therapy and relaxation. According to Bridget C. Davis, a hot tub can have long-lasting effects on your health, like:

I couldn’t agree more with what Sylvia Plath said in The Bell Jar: “I am sure there are things that can’t be cured by a good bath but I can’t think of one.”

FAQ

❌Who should not go in a hot tub?

Due to the risk of hyperthermia, pregnant women and young children under 7 years of age should not go in a hot tub. The developing organisms during these periods are not yet able to effectively regulate their temperature, so a visit to the jacuzzi can prove to be fatal.

🤰Can you get pregnant in a hot tub?

The water does not prevent pregnancy in any way if you have sex underwater in a hot tub. That being said, it must be noted that sperm count does lower when you have been in the water for more than 30 minutes, so the chances of pregnancy decrease.

🧐Can I use a hot tub with a heart condition?

If you have a heart condition, it shouldn’t stop you from enjoying hot tub advantages – all you need to do is to be careful while soaking in it. Medical experts say that sudden immersion in hot water may lead your body to heat up and start stressing your heart.

🤓Can a person with diabetes use a hot tub?

Yes, it can be good for their health. Studies show that a hot tub reduces blood glucose levels in people suffering from diabetes. The hot water increases the temperature and the body stimulates the natural cooling mechanism. The increase in blood flow is one of the amazing health benefits of soaking in a hot tub, especially if you are unable to exercise.

🌡What temperature should a hot tub be?

We recommend that 98.6 F is the best temperature for an average normal body. If the temperature exceeds, then you might be in danger of developing several problems like:

  • Heat rash
  • Cramps
  • Exhaustion
  • Heat strokes

💲 Will health insurance pay for a hot tub?

Some insurance companies will pay for your hot tub, but it does not cover installation and other costs. A hot tub is considered a luxury and it is not related to any medical expenses.

David McConaghy

David is a professional psychiatrist, a graduate of the University of Oregon. In 2019, David has opened his private practice, providing a wide range of psychotherapeutic services to children, adolescents, and adults, as well as couples and families. One of the areas of Dr. McConaghy’s scientific research is the effects of hydrotherapy on psychological wellbeing. David is an active media contributor and has co-Founded ByRossi, an online journal where he shares his expertise in psychology and hydrotherapy.

View Comments

  • I like that you mentioned that it helps with arthritis. My mom has really bad arthritis in one of her knees. I think I will surprise her with a hot tub!

  • It's great that you talked about hot tubs and how they help reduce muscle pain. Recently, my brother said he got injured while playing football again, and he's recovering from it. My brother loves outdoor sports and won't stop playing them, so I think he could benefit from adding a hot tub to his home. Thanks for the advice on how hot tubs come with health benefits for pain relief.

  • I'm glad the article explained that hot tubs can help with stress and anxiety. My wife and I would like to purchase a hot tub. We are going to have to go to a showroom so that we can find a model that will fit in our backyard.

  • Thank you for explaining how hot tubs can help with back and hip pain. I've been wondering how to work with my chronic pain for a while now. We'll have to get a hot tub and see if this works.

  • It's interesting that you mention that using a hot tub can help relieve stress. I've been having a stressful month, so I'm thinking about buying a hot tub this week. I'm going to see if there's a good business in the area that can sell me a hot tub.

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