Paraffin Wax Bath

A paraffin wax bath is a type of heat treatment that heats up small joints in the hands and feet and is done to alleviate pain in the joints. Paraffin wax bath recipe involves soft, pliable, and non-greasy wax infused with oil. There are also kits for this that come in different sizes, some smaller ones for hands, while some larger ones for legs. The outer shell of the apparatus is made of flame retardant plastic, which remain cool to touch when in use. Nowadays, companies have come up with paraffin wax with various scents, thereby adding the aromatherapy effect to it.

Paraffin Wax Bath Benefits

For Arthritis
Paraffin wax bath treatment can be easily carried out at home and is one of the best ways to soothe minor aches and pains. This is why physiotherapists, arthritis specialists, etc. have been recommending paraffin wax bath for arthritis since 1962. The paraffin wax bath will heat the tissues and muscles and will bring relief from muscle pain.

For Joint Pain
The therapy is also recommended for those suffering from pain caused by sprains, joint stiffness and strains. This therapy removes excess fluid from the surrounding tissue around the joint and will alleviate pain and stiffness around the joint. Thus, people with other joint pain problems like tennis elbow, tendentious, bursitis and other issues like fatigued muscles, scarred tissues, etc. can also benefit from this bath therapy. Pain contracted from sports injuries can also be alleviated by this therapy.

For the Skin
Paraffin wax bath for hands is also good because apart from relieving pain by heating the tissues of the muscles, it also leaves the skin of the hands hydrated and soft. The paraffin wax bath increases blood circulation in the skin and help attenuate skin conditions like eczema, psoriasis and dry, cracked skin. This bath is also used in salon manicures, pedicures and paraffin facials.

Instructions and Working

Commercially available paraffin wax baths resemble a small tub that can easily accommodate the hand, elbow or foot. They can be considered as natural treatment as they are drug free. The apparatus consists of a container that holds paraffin wax and can absorb and retain heat. One needs to place the block of wax and allow it to melt. The wax may take about 6 - 12 hours to melt, after which you can submerge your aching hand, elbow or leg. Religiously follow the manufacturer's instructions regarding temperature of the bath, etc. lest you want to scald your hand.

As you submerge your aching leg, hand or elbow into the melted wax, a wax coating is developed. It is better to dip the affected area three to four times, as it will ensure the affected area gets covered properly. On cooling, the wax forms a warm envelope around the affected area and the heat from the wax transfers to the aching joint. Keep your hands steady, so as to not break the wax seal. Wrap your hand with a towel to increase insulation. Leave the wax on for around 20 minutes, after which you need to peel off the wax. The heat transferred improves blood circulation in the aching area, reduces inflammation and relaxes the tight muscles, thereby bringing relief. Moreover, the paraffin wax is mixed with oil, which penetrates into the skin and softens it. Once you are done, you need to strain the melted wax with gauze and store it in its container for the next use.

One needs to take certain precautionary measures while handling paraffin wax bath. You should never apply paraffin wax on open cuts and sores. However, you do not need to wait till you are aching to enjoy the benefits of a paraffin bath. You could use a paraffin bath before exercising, which helps you loosen stiff joints, thereby allowing you to exercise more easily. Moreover, if you are suffering from dry winter skin, you can use it to soothe your skin.