Paraffin Wax Soak/Bath
People with arthritis in the feet or hands could benefit from a paraffin wax bath or soak. The heat from the paraffin wax dilates the blood vessels, which improves circulation and effectively helps ease stiffness and pain.
Arthritis includes many conditions associated with joint swelling and pain. Some doctors recommend paraffin wax baths. When doing a paraffin wax soak, the individual must completely cover the hands and feet with the molten wax. The heat from the warm wax penetrates the skin to relax the muscles and reduce stiffness in the joints.
Hydrogen and carbon elements are the principal components of paraffin wax. The wax melts at low temperatures and, with correct usage, will not burn the skin. The maximum temperature for a paraffin soak is 51.7°C or 125°F.
Although arthritis does not yet have a cure, a paraffin wax soak can help manage its symptoms. As the blood vessels dilate from the heat, the blood flow increases, bringing vital nutrients and oxygen to the swollen or painful joints. Osteoarthritis typically affects the hands but can also affect the feet. Thus, a heat therapy such as paraffin wax soak is suitable because people can do the treatment at home.
