Improves Range of Motion
When a person steps into a hot tub, the body initially records discomfort because of the heat coursing through the water. However, once the person submerges into the tub, the body responds accordingly. The body reacts to the heat of the water and begins to release various hormones, and increases blood flow. The receptors signal the brain that the body’s under stress and trigger a chain reaction that relaxes the body.
Once the body registers the heat of the water, the blood reaches an excited state, and blood flow increases to the muscles, joints, and skin. The skin becomes flushed with color as the blood circulates better. The blood also delivers more oxygen to the muscles and joints, easing the pain and stiffness and helping their recovery.
The water also supports the body weight, relieves pain, and helps increase the range of motion because of the relatively relaxed state. When the body’s submerged in water, it weighs about 90 percent less than its normal weight. This condition leads to the joints decompressing, alleviating pain, and increasing the range of motion. It’s also recommended to practice flexibility exercises when submerged in the tub.
