Hot tub therapy and rheumatoid arthritis: Soothing symptoms with temporary relief

11 Minute Read

Living with rheumatoid arthritis (RA) can be challenging, both physically and emotionally. While medication and medical care remain the foundation of treatment, many people also explore complementary therapies to ease pain and improve their quality of life. Hot tub therapy—also known as hydrotherapy—has been shown to provide relief for joint stiffness, reduce inflammation, and support relaxation. When paired with high-quality systems like Jacuzzi® hot tubs, this form of therapy becomes even more accessible and beneficial.

This article will help you explore what rheumatoid arthritis is, more natural methods to help manage symptoms, the science behind hydrotherapy, and why Jacuzzi® hot tubs are uniquely suited to help you live well with RA.

Article highlights: How hot tub therapy supports rheumatoid arthritis

Relieves stiffness and pain
Warm water improves circulation and reduces morning stiffness, easing joint discomfort.
Supports joint mobility
Buoyancy reduces pressure on painful joints, allowing gentle, strain-free movement.
Promotes relaxation and stress relief
Hydro-massage jets calm tense muscles and lower stress, which can reduce RA flare intensity.

What is rheumatoid arthritis?

Rheumatoid arthritis is a chronic autoimmune disease in which the body’s immune system mistakenly attacks healthy joint tissue. Unlike osteoarthritis, which is caused by wear and tear, RA is characterized by inflammation that leads to swelling, pain, stiffness, and potential long-term joint damage. According to the Mayo Clinic, RA most commonly affects smaller joints, such as those in the hands and feet, but it can eventually spread to larger joints and even organs.

Key symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis:

Joint pain, tenderness, or swelling
Stiffness, particularly in the morning or after periods of inactivity
Fatigue and general malaise
Symmetrical joint involvement (both sides of the body are typically affected)

RA often progresses in flares and remissions, making symptom management an essential aspect of daily living. While there is currently no cure, a combination of medical treatment, lifestyle adjustments, and complementary therapies can help maintain mobility and quality of life.

Managing symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis more naturally

Alongside prescribed medications and medical treatments, many people seek natural or complementary therapies to manage RA symptoms. According to the Cleveland Clinic, lifestyle approaches like diet, stress management, and exercise can play a decisive role in controlling inflammation and improving comfort.

1. Gentle exercise

Low-impact exercises like swimming, yoga, and walking can help strengthen muscles, maintain joint flexibility, and reduce stiffness. Movement also promotes better circulation, which is essential for joint health.

2. Heat and cold therapy

Applying heat to sore joints can improve circulation and reduce stiffness, while cold packs may reduce inflammation during acute flares. Hot tub therapy combines both heat and buoyancy to create a powerful form of relief.

3. Stress reduction

RA is not only a physical condition but also an emotional one. Stress and anxiety can intensify symptoms. Practices such as meditation, deep breathing, and spending time in warm water can help calm the nervous system and improve overall well-being.

4. Balanced diet

An anti-inflammatory diet rich in vegetables, lean proteins, whole grains, and omega-3 fatty acids can support joint health. According to the Mayo Clinic, some studies suggest that omega-3 supplements may reduce RA symptoms.

5. Hydrotherapy

Water-based therapy—whether in a pool, spa, or hot tub—has been shown to reduce joint pain and improve mobility. In fact, research published in PubMed (2012, PMID: 22806987) titled “The effectiveness of hydrotherapy in the management of rheumatoid arthritis: a systematic review” demonstrated that hydrotherapy improved functional capacity, reduced pain, and enhanced quality of life in patients with RA.

How hydrotherapy helps rheumatoid arthritis

Hydrotherapy involves using water for therapeutic purposes, often at warm temperatures. For individuals with RA, the combination of heat, buoyancy, and massage provides significant benefits.

1. Warmth reduces pain and stiffness

Warm water helps dilate blood vessels, increasing circulation and delivering oxygen and nutrients to joints and muscles. This can ease stiffness, particularly in the morning or after long periods of inactivity.

2. Buoyancy supports joints

When immersed in water, your body weight is reduced by up to 90%. This buoyancy relieves pressure on joints, allowing for gentle movement without strain. It’s especially beneficial for individuals with RA who may struggle with weight-bearing activities on land.

3. Massage eases tension

Jets in hot tubs provide targeted hydro-massage. For those with RA, this can help relax tense muscles, reduce pain perception, and improve range of motion.

4. Stress relief enhances overall health

Hydrotherapy isn’t just physical. Relaxing in warm water helps reduce cortisol (the stress hormone). It promotes mental well-being, which is critical since stress can trigger RA flares.

Supporting research

The PubMed study previously cited confirmed that hydrotherapy significantly improved pain levels and functional outcomes in individuals with RA. Patients reported enhanced mobility, reduced fatigue, and better overall quality of life. The findings support hydrotherapy as a safe, natural complement to standard RA care.

Why Jacuzzi® hot tubs are ideal for RA therapy

While hydrotherapy can be beneficial in many settings, Jacuzzi® hot tubs are uniquely equipped to enhance relief for people living with rheumatoid arthritis. With decades of innovation, the Jacuzzi® brand designs its hot tubs to support wellness through advanced hydrotherapy systems.

Hot tub therapy and rheumatoid arthritis

1. Advanced jet technology

Jacuzzi® hot tubs feature the exclusive Jacuzzi® PowerPro® jets, which deliver adjustable streams of water and air for targeted massage. This allows you to focus on specific joints, such as hands, knees, or shoulders, for personalized relief.

2. Ergonomic seating

Comfort is essential for individuals with RA. Jacuzzi® hot tubs are designed with contoured seats and loungers that reduce strain on joints while keeping the body supported in natural positions. This makes it easier to enter, exit, and enjoy therapy sessions.

3. Consistent warmth and circulation

Unlike bathtubs, which quickly cool down, Jacuzzi® hot tub systems maintain consistent water temperature. This ensures that joints receive sustained heat therapy, essential for reducing stiffness and promoting blood flow.

4. Easy-to-use smart controls

RA can affect grip strength and hand dexterity. The Jacuzzi® SmartTub® System makes operation simple through a smartphone app, allowing users to adjust settings like temperature and jet pressure with minimal physical effort.

5. Clean1, safe water

Those with RA may also have compromised immune systems due to medications. Jacuzzi® hot tubs feature advanced water care systems, such as Jacuzzi® True Water®, which provides powerful yet gentle purification to keep water clean and safe through nanotechnology.

6. Whole-body wellness

Jacuzzi® hot tubs are not only for joint relief but also for overall wellness. Regular sessions can improve sleep quality, reduce anxiety, and promote relaxation—all important for managing a chronic condition like RA.

Tips for using a hot tub safely with rheumatoid arthritis

Before beginning hot tub therapy, it’s important to discuss your plans with a rheumatologist or healthcare provider. Once cleared, the following tips can help maximize benefits:

Limit sessions to 15-20 minutes: Extended exposure may cause fatigue or dehydration.
Maintain optimal water temperature: The recommended safe soaking temperature range is between 100°F and 104°F. Those with RA should consult their doctor to determine their personal comfort range.
Stay hydrated: Drink water before and after sessions to prevent dehydration.
Move gently in the water: Use the buoyancy to perform light stretches or movements, enhancing joint flexibility.
Avoid during active flares: If joints are acutely inflamed, wait until symptoms subside before soaking.

Living well with rheumatoid arthritis

Living with RA requires a comprehensive approach—medical treatment, lifestyle management, and self-care strategies all play a role. Hot tub therapy, especially in a Jacuzzi® hot tub, offers a natural, soothing, and effective way to ease symptoms and improve daily life.

By combining the proven science of hydrotherapy with Jacuzzi hot tubs’ innovative design, you gain not only physical relief but also emotional and mental support. Warm water immersion helps restore mobility, reduce stiffness, and create moments of peace in an otherwise demanding condition.

Rheumatoid arthritis may be a lifelong condition, but it doesn’t have to mean a life defined by pain and limitation. With the help of complementary therapies like hydrotherapy, supported by credible research, you can find more natural ways to manage symptoms and enhance your quality of life. Jacuzzi® hot tubs stand out as an exceptional option for those seeking consistent, effective relief through water-based therapy.

If you or a loved one lives with RA, consider the benefits of adding hot tub therapy to your wellness plan. The combination of warmth, buoyancy, and massage—delivered through the advanced technology of Jacuzzi® wellness products—can help you live well and more comfortably, move more freely, and experience greater peace every day.

When you are ready to experience peace and comfort with hot tub therapy, visit your local Jacuzzi® hot tub dealer to learn more about the best model for your needs.

1Clean is defined as the removal of microscopic (down to 3-micron level, varies by model) debris from the water.

Medical Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with questions regarding any medical condition.

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