Soak Away the Pain: The Healing Benefits of Bathing

Physical TherapyRecovery
Written By Dr. Josh DeMorett PT, DPT, OCS, USAW-1

Taking baths is one of the most underrated tools in the physical therapy world when it comes to pain management and symptom improvement. We all know the benefits of taking a bath for stress management and the state of zen that can be realized. However, I believe many of us underestimate the value when it comes to acute or irritable symptoms.

1) Improved Circulation

Immersing yourself in warm water enhances blood flow throughout the body. Improved circulation aids in delivering oxygen and nutrients to injured tissues, which accelerate the healing process.

2) Muscle & Nerve Relaxation

Baths activate our parasympathetic nervous system which in turn act on certain nerve pathways relaxing and disengaging muscle tension and stiffness. This also acts on the nerves themselves if they are in a hyperactive state.

3) Enhanced Sleep

Taking a warm bath before bedtime promotes relaxation and improved sleep quality. Adequate restorative sleep is essential for the body's healing processes, including tissue repair and pain management.

I truly believe baths to be one of the most underrated tools in pain management and should be discussed and encouraged more in the acute and irritable stages of injury. Next time your symptoms seem to be elevated and increased, maybe consider a regular bath and its associated benefits.

Learn More About Tundra Performance

If you are currently struggling with an injury or unable to perform in the activities you enjoy. Please follow the link below to schedule a consultation call to discuss how we can help you.

Book Your 15 Minute Phone Consultation
Dr. Josh DeMorett PT, DPT, OCS, USAW-1

Josh is a board certified specialist, practicing physical therapy since 2015, graduating with a Doctorate of Physical Therapy from the University of Wisconsin - Milwaukee and Bachelors degree in Physics from the University of Wisconsin - Lacrosse.

He established Tundra Performance and Physical Therapy in 2022 after working and treating in high demand, outpatient orthopedic and sports medicine clinics throughout his career. At Tundra Performance, he set forth with the intent and goal to raise the standardization of care and practice of what physical therapists can offer patients. His approach to treatment is centered around combining movement and manual therapy interventions, placing the patient’s goals at the forefront of their rehabilitation journey. Progressing and moving beyond the confines of therapy and rehabilitation into the realm of performance.

Previous

Mastering the Deadlift Bar Path
Next

Choose Your Weapon: Trap Bar vs Barbell