Are you tired of living with arthritic hand pain? I know first hand that managing the pain and stiffness in your hands can be quite a challenge. I have found something that helps, a paraffin bath.
When my hands are really hurting I dip them into a paraffin bath. The paraffin melts over my fingers and keeps them really warm. Since I can’t do anything with my hands I take that time to just relax. It feels so good.
I also use my paraffin bath to relax my fingers before I do hand exercises. It gets them relaxed and makes it easier to do the exercises.
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Please note that all opinions are my own and are not intended to be taken as medical advice.
What Is A Paraffin Bath?
A paraffin bath is simply a container that heats wax to create a therapeutic treatment for your hands. The wax is heated to a temperature that is hot, but not so hot that it will burn you. Don’t worry it is really easy to figure out the correct temperature.
You then dip your hands into the wax and it forms a layer of wax around your hands. Then you sit back and relax and let the heat do it’s work.
Benefits of Using a Paraffin Bath
- Pain Relief: The heat from the paraffin wax helps relieve pain. This is especially beneficial for those with rheumatoid arthritis.
- Will Improve Circulation: The heat that is created from the wax will help increase circulation in your fingers. It will also help to reduce inflammation. This also helps to promote healing.
- Improve Flexibility: Regular use can improve the range of motion in your hands. I use the paraffin bath before I do hand exercises.
How to Use
- Make sure the paraffin bath is clean.
- Melt the wax according to the devices directions. If you use it regularly, you can leave the unit plugged in at a low heat. This way, the wax stays melted and ready to use.
- The temperature of the wax is crucial! You want it warm and not too hot. If it is too hot it can burn you! Before you dip your entire hand in the wax, dip a tip of your finger first. This way you can quickly peel the wax off if it is too hot. There are different settings on the bath. You will know where to set it after a few uses.
- Make sure you wash and dry your hands thoroughly before dipping them into the wax. Keep the bath and your hands clean. This practice will keep the wax in good condition. Then you will not have to replace it as often.
- Dip your hands in the wax. Let the first layer cool for a few seconds. Double check to make sure it is not going to be too hot. Repeat a few times so you have several layers of wax on your hands.
- Wait a few seconds for the wax to solidify, wrap them in plastic. Then wrap them in a towel to keep the wax warm longer. There are special gloves you can buy if you wish.
- Sit back and relax! The wax should stay warm for about 15 – 20 minutes. Once it starts getting cool just peel off the wax layer. You can reuse the wax by peeling it back into the paraffin bath if it is still clean.
Conair Paraffin Spa Bath
This is the model that I have and I have been quite happy with it.
Conair Thermal Paraffin Spa Bath Moisturizing Wax TreatmentBuy on Amazon
A paraffin bath can be a pleasurable addition to your routine. It helps manage the challenges of arthritis in your hands. Not only does it offer healing benefits, but it will give you a chance during your day to just relax. Relaxing is one of the best things we can do for our body. Go ahead and pamper yourself with the soothing relief of a paraffin bath.
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