Water Exercises.
Last updated Thursday, January 06, 2005
Buying a spaThinking of buying a spa? The spa and pool industry has made it more convenient for people to
own, install, and receive the benefits of a spa or pool in their own
home. Spas and pools can be installed inside or outside your home.
Before purchasing a spa or pool, you may want to consider the following:
- Does warm water relieve the symptoms of your arthritis?
- Does the size and shape give you adequate room to exercise, especially hip and leg exercises?
- Is it relatively easy for you to get into and out of?
- Are hand controls easy to use and within easy reach while seated in the spa?
- Is it possible to install handrails and grab bars to facilitate easy entry, exit, or moving?
- Are seats or stairs wide enough and comfortable?
- Does the spa or pool have or can you install slip resistant surfaces?
- Are there sharp corners and edges?
Most companies will allow potential buyers to sit in a spa to determine
which model is most comfortable and best suited to their needs.
As a consumer of health care, ask questions. Judge for
yourself the effects and safety of a spa or pool, as you would with any
new treatment method for arthritis before you try it. Ask your doctor
if you need more information.
The National Spa and Pool Institute,
an international trade association of more than 5,000 manufacturers,
distributors, retailers, service companies, and builders in the
pool/spa and hot tub industry, publishes consumer brochures about pools
and spas. For more information, contact NSPI, 2111 Eisenhower Avenue,
Alexandria, VA 22314, (703) 838-0083.
Precautions If you own or are planning to purchase a spa or pool, you are
encouraged to use it safely. Ask your sales representative for a
booklet containing general safety tips and also follow the medical
precautions listed below:
- Consult with your doctor before using or
purchasing a spa or pool if you have any special medical conditions
such as: lung or heart disease, circulatory problems, high or low blood
pressure, diabetes, multiple sclerosis, thyroid disease, skin
irritations, or any other serious illness.
- Consider
that you may need help getting in and out of the spa or pool. Someone
else should be nearby for help if necessary, especially the first few
times.
- Check the thermometer for appropriate temperature before entering and while in the spa or pool.
- Remember
that individuals react differently to heat; therefore, anyone who feels
lightheaded or nauseated should get out of the water immediately.
- If joint swelling, stiffness, or pain increases, discontinue the use of heat and exercise and consult your doctor.
- Never
use a spa or pool while or after using alcohol or drugs. These may
cause sleepiness, drowsiness, or may raise or lower blood pressure.
- Pregnant women should not enter a spa without first consulting their doctor.
Credits Some of this material may also be available in an Arthritis Foundation
brochure. Contact the Washington/Alaska Chapter Helpline: (800)
542-0295. If dialing from outside of WA and AK, contact the National
Helpline: (800) 283-7800.
Adapted from a pamphlet originally prepared for the Arthritis Foundation. This material is protected by copyright. Disclaimer
This resource has been provided by the University of Washington Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine as general information only. This information may not apply to a specific patient. Additional information may be found at http://www.orthop.washington.edu or by contacting the UW Department of Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine.
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