The switch to a walk-in bath tub is often viewed as a purely practical solution. People can focus in on the shape of the tub, the safety features and the means of entry. It is a tool for allowing users to bathe successfully in their own home. Yet, there are actually further therapeutic benefits that can be achieved in this switch. Depending on their condition and needs, users could enjoy the following.
Hydrotherapy for Joint Conditions
First of all, there is the potential for hydrotherapy sessions in one of these bath tubs. It all depends on the size of the tub. Hydrotherapy is great for anyone with joint and spinal problems. It allows people to move with minimal impact on the joints. This means that some people can work on muscles and flexibility of joint, without the risk of pain. A mid-size bath with a chair, or full size bath, should provide the room to move the legs within the water. This allows users to build strength and relieve pain in the comfort of their own homes.
Massage jets for Pain Relief
Then there is the benefit from the massage jets and air jets within the pool. Many of the best walk in tubs have these jets that create bubbles and circulate the water. This helps to provide a spa effect and a massage for tissues and muscles. The gentle pressure, along with the heat of the water, offers a pleasant sensation that can aid many conditions.
Chromotherapy for Emotional Support
Other users will benefit from therapy from the different sensory elements within and around the pool. The feel and heat of the water is just the start for some people. Others can achieve a more sensory experience with the addition of chromotherapy lighting. This is increasingly common in at-home saunas, and is now seen in some walk in baths too. Different colored lights, at different wavelengths, can have a profound effect on mood and emotions.
Relaxation for Mental Health
This leads to the final therapeutic impact of the walk in tub – and that is relaxation for mental health. Many people love to end the day with a good soak in the tub. The hot water, pleasant smelling toiletries and bubbles combine for a relaxing, inviting environment. Many people lie there with a herbal tea and a good book. There is no reason why disabled people and seniors shouldn’t have the same privileges. A good walk in tub shouldn’t stop them from doing this.
Match the Features and Benefit to the User
There are two ways to look at these tubs for therapeutic effects. Firstly, this could be a simple adaption to ensure that users get the same mental health and physical health benefits as they would have in their old bath. A walk-in tub should be a positive adaptation that doesn’t impact on a weekly routine too much. The other approach is to completely overhaul the bath time experience for intense hydrotherapy and chromotherapy. This could really help those with degenerative illness and debilitating conditions. Either way, consumes need to match the tub, and its benefits, to the user’s needs.