View Full Version : Anyone treating neuropain with a hot tub?
cvelusc
03-05-2008, 08:18 AM
So we're here visiting my wife's mother and she has this hot tub that I've been in several times that seems to knock the neuropain away (to some degree) when I go for a dip before bedtime. I don't quite understand the function of the hot tub on my neuropain, but I can say that I'm able to nod off somewhat easier after being in the hot water. The water temperature was around 100 degrees Fahrenheit and this whole situation reminds me (again, to a certain degree) of capszacin cream that I've spread on my feet in the past to combat the neuropain.
Only trick with the hot tub is trying to get in safely. Definitely takes some practice and help. And I believe the same effect can be had by a simple hot bath.
If anyone else has had a similar experience or can chime in on how the hot water affects neuropain then I would be appreciative of the response.
--Christopher
denny4104
03-06-2008, 11:26 AM
I recently installed a hot tub and love it. I had two rotating grab-bars installes (each side of the steps. Initially I had the temp at 102, but made my stiffness (just feelings of stiffness) even worse. I've since turned it down to 98, and just that little difference has made a world of difference. Getting out is more difficult because my body is just so relaxed.
Another addition that seems too have helped a bit over all is the infrared sauna (along with also being very relaxing). You can shower before getting in...sit on a white towel and have one under your feet, and it's amazing the brown/grey coloring that is excreeted in your sweat. Doing especially the hot tub before really makes going to sleep much easier.
addiesue
03-06-2008, 12:06 PM
I haven't been in one in a long time but I remember that my tone/spasms were always better afterwards. It's not fun though unless I had someone to get me out. Kind of takes away that relaxation when you have to drag your wet bathing suit body up in a chair while trying not to show the world your goodies.
dunwawry
03-06-2008, 12:09 PM
I have found, and this may be related, that if I can reduce my tone, my neuropathic pain improves. By the same token, increased tone seems to aggravate the pain. When I get in a very warm pool or a hot bath, my tone goes down. I have also found, accidentally, that a dose of valium also reduces my neuropathic pain a bit when it breaks through my anticonvulsant, presumably for the same reason (whereas something like vidocin would not touch it). Valium happens to be my prn, or as needed, medication for spasiticity. I have never read of any connection between tone and neuropathic pain (maybe this is groundbreaking stuff here!), but it works for me, and maybe it is working for you the same way. And I say, if it works, and is safe, go for it!
CapnGimp
03-06-2008, 04:35 PM
while trying not to show the world your goodies.
:applaud: Reminded me of a card I saw once... Don't be selfish, be friendly! SHARE your goodies with me! haha
Those first few years after injury, I always took a long hot bath until the hot water ran out. It ALWAYS helped the burning and pain go away. I can't be certain it was the main (always smoked one at the same time) cause but it sure was relaxing. When I left TX for TN, the long baths ended due to no longer living alone. Now I shower and miss those long hot soaks shivering my bony butt off on the shower bench.
My sister has a hot tub in her bathroom upstairs and I hope to try it out one day. Haven't yet but ths reminded me of the potential help! We go to the beach every summer and there is one in the room but it is too small for my long legs and very hard to get into, so I haven't used it either.
My legs float and I have to put something under my butt now, and I have just the cushion for it(stimulite contour). You have the wheels spinning...
razzle51
03-06-2008, 04:38 PM
I get severe spasms too . anything hot , heat pad etc.
addiesue
03-08-2008, 12:26 AM
Hey Christopher I am so jealous you are in FL. It is snowing, snowing, snowing. They are predicting 6 inches here. You picked a good week to get out of town.