Float therapy offers several potential benefits for individuals with arthritis, particularly in managing pain, inflammation, and improving mobility. While more scientific research is needed to fully confirm its effectiveness, many people with arthritis have reported relief from symptoms after regular float sessions.
"In a post float chat we had, one elderly lady (86 years young) who asked me to look at her hands, which she moved slowly but freely. Opening her fingers fully, and then turning them over as if this is the first time she had seen her hands. She said " this is the first time in 10 years I have been able to move them like this". She added "The pain in my hips and joints are gone, I don't understand what's happened? And my hands are so pain free, I can't believe it. I am so, so happy".
Our client suffered from Osteoarthritis for a long time. I was so pleased she shared that moment of happiness with me.
1. Pain Relief
Buoyancy and Weightlessness: In a float tank, the body is buoyant in Epsom salt (magnesium sulfate)-rich water, which supports the entire body and reduces the strain on joints. This weightlessness helps relieve the pressure on arthritic joints, providing immediate pain relief.
Magnesium Absorption: Epsom salts are rich in magnesium, which is known to help relax muscles and reduce inflammation. This can contribute to easing the pain associated with arthritis.
2. Reduction of Inflammation
Magnesium sulfate found in the Epsom salt solution used in float tanks may help to reduce inflammation, which is a key cause of pain and discomfort in arthritis.
Floating in a sensory-reduced environment has been shown to lower stress hormones like cortisol, which are linked to inflammation. Reduced cortisol levels can help the body reduce inflammation naturally, providing relief from arthritis symptoms.
3. Improved Mobility and Joint Function
The relief from gravity and pressure on joints experienced during float therapy allows greater ease of movement and can help improve joint flexibility over time. Regular float therapy sessions can assist in improving range of motion without putting stress on the joints.
After the body is relaxed from the float, some individuals report increased flexibility, which may help in managing arthritis symptoms over the long term.
4. Stress Reduction and Mental Health Benefits
Chronic pain from arthritis can lead to stress and anxiety, which in turn can exacerbate symptoms. The deep relaxation induced by float therapy helps lower stress and promotes mental well-being.
The quiet, sensory-free environment helps individuals with arthritis escape from the physical and mental strain of daily pain, offering a peaceful respite that can improve mood and emotional resilience.
5. Muscle Relaxation
Float therapy helps relax tight muscles surrounding the joints, which can alleviate secondary pain and discomfort. This relaxation promotes blood flow to affected areas, assisting in healing and reducing stiffness.
Warm water in the float tank enhances the relaxation effect, soothing tense muscles and supporting joint health.
6. Better Sleep
Arthritis can disrupt sleep due to pain and discomfort. The calming effect of float therapy often leads to better-quality sleep. Deep relaxation experienced during a float session can help regulate sleep patterns, which is essential for recovery and overall health.
Improved sleep can contribute to better pain management, reducing daytime fatigue and improving the body's ability to cope with arthritis symptoms.
7. Mood and Pain Perception Improvement
Float therapy has been shown to boost endorphins and dopamine, the body’s natural “feel-good” chemicals. This can help elevate mood and improve pain perception, making it easier to cope with the chronic pain associated with arthritis.
8. Reduction of Stress-Related Symptoms
Arthritis can sometimes be aggravated by stress and tension. Float therapy's deep relaxation promotes the release of tension in both the mind and body, which can help reduce stress-related symptoms such as muscle tightness and pain flare-ups.
Overall, float therapy provides a safe, non-invasive way to manage arthritis symptoms by combining physical relief with mental relaxation. While it may not cure arthritis, regular sessions can help reduce the intensity of pain and improve overall quality of life. It’s always advisable to consult a healthcare professional before starting any new treatment for arthritis.
Author: Nigel Ross, co-founder of Urban Wellness Float, Aberdeen
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