Physiotherapy

Wax Therapy for Hands

Hand Wax Therapy

Wax bath physiotherapy, using paraffin wax, is one of the most effective ways of applying heat to improve joint mobility by warming the connective tissues. It is mainly used for painful hands and feet and is used by our physiotherapists in conjunction with gentle mobilising techniques and a tailored exercise programme. It is ideal for pain relief and maintaining movement in arthritis as well as for post-traumatic stiff hands. These common conditions cause pain and disability.

Paraffin wax is obtained from refined mineral crude oil. It is a non toxic substance and does not cause any adverse reaction when it comes in contact with skin. As it has a very low melting temperature (48°C-90C) it is not going to cause any burns or blisters, and does not get stuck to the skin as well.

Warm wax has several benefits. It helps to bring down the aches and pains of the body, relaxes sore and tired muscles and hydrates the skin making it soft and smooth.

Chronic Pain and Arthritis Relief


Musculoskeletal conditions that are longstanding often benefit from heat therapy, such as paraffin wax treatments. Besides keeping joints mobile, paraffin wax helps reduce chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia, strains, sprains and muscle spasms. Rheumatoid arthritis and Sudecks atrophy sufferers can also get relief.

Pain caused by arthritis, muscle stiffness or injury may be relieved from paraffin therapy. The heat from the paraffin can penetrate through and help relax tense muscles and small joints of the hands and fingers. The warmth improves blood flow and relieves inflammation.



Skin Softening


Paraffin wax as a form of mineral oil can help soften skin and may help the sufferers of scleroderma where there is overproduction of the collagen fibers that give structure to the skin, causing skin to become thickened and tight. This restricts blood flow and makes movement in the joints difficult and painful. The heat from paraffin wax opens your pores and increases blood circulation in your skin, leaving it warms and softens the skin and keeps joints mobile.

Rehydrate


Paraffin wax can rehydrate your skin. If your skin is dry or cracked due to a medical condition, cold weather or stress, the paraffin wax will help your skin to be smooth. The skins colour can also improve to a healthier tone.

Although our main concern is with relieving joint pain and improving mobility to help with activities of daily living, there are other great skin benefits to using paraffin wax baths.

Please contact us and speak with one of our physios who will be able to help you get the benefit of this pain relieving and effective therapy.