Facing Knee Replacement Surgery? Hot Tub Exercise is the Secret to Reducing Pain & Increasing Mobility

Big news for knee replacement patients: hot tub therapy begun just 6 days after knee replacement surgery lessens pain and increases mobility.  

That’s right.

Starting aquatic therapy within 6 days after total knee replacement appears to improve a patient’s outcome, according to a new study.

The number of patients having total knee and hip replacements is increasing, but there is a lack of agreement about the best type of post-surgical treatment noted German researchers.

Aquatic therapy has been shown to be beneficial when begun two weeks after surgery, when the wound has healed.

However, this study found that beginning aquatic therapy just six days after total knee replacement may lead to better results.

Patients who’d had total knee replacement were randomly assigned to undergo aquatic therapy either six or 14 days after surgery. Both groups had 30-minute therapy sessions three times a week up to the fifth week after surgery. Their physical function, pain and stiffness were evaluated three, six, 12 and 24 months after surgery.

All of the outcome measures were better in the knee replacement patients who started aquatic therapy six days after their surgery, compared to those who began therapy 14 days after surgery said investigator Dr. Thoralf Liebs, of the University of Schleswig-Holstein Medical Center in Kiel, and colleagues reported.

Liebs hypothesized that the force of the water during aquatic therapy reduces buildup of fluid in the knee joint.  Because the knee capsule is closed after knee replacement, reduced fluid buildup leads to less pain.

(SOURCE: Archives of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, news release, Dec. 21, 2011)

If you’re scheduled for knee surgery or still trying to cope after a recent knee replacement, the results are clear: start hot tub   therapy to reduce pain and pain medication as well as improve range of motion faster. If you ask your insurance company nicely, you just might get them to pay for your hot tub!  It’s worth a try!!

SANUM PER AQUA. Latin for Health through Water.

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Hot Tub Safety: Top 10 Dos & Don’t for Safe Hot Tubbing

Hot Tub Safety

With the glorious hot weather we’ve been having, I’m hearing from many hot tub owners that they’re finally getting the chance to entertain.  And that for most of those backyard parties the hot tub will be the star of the show.

Hot tubs make parties more fun that’s for sure.

But, make sure the fun doesn’t end in disaster.

Make your hot tub party a safe one by following our top 10 safety tips:

1. ALWAYS SUPERVISE.

Do not allow anyone — of any age — to use a hot tub without supervision.  Never allow children to use a hot tub unsupervised – even for a moment. Make sure you can see what they’re doing.

2. ALCOHOL IS A NO-NO WHILE HOT TUBBING. Save the drinks for after your soak.

Do not drink alcohol before – or while – soaking in a hot tub. Alcohol increases the risk of passing out, heart attack, or injury from passing out and slipping into the water and drowning. Save the drinks for after hot tubbing.

3. PLASTIC ONLY AROUND THE HOT TUB, PLEASE.

Don’t use glass or pottery containers for drinks or food that could break.

4. REQUIRE GOOD BEHAVIOR FROM KIDS.

This means:

No playful screaming for help (false alarms) that might mask a real emergency.

No running or pushing near the hot tub.

No diving or jumping into a hot tub.

No playing on top of the hot tub cover. They do not support a child’s weight.

No playing the “hold your breath underwater” game.

I don’t want to sound like a grumpy, spoil sport, but kids do need to be taught what good hot tub manners are.

5. RESPECT STORMS.

Never use the hot tub before, during, or after a thunderstorm. There is a real danger of electrocution from lightning hitting the water.

6. PREPARE FOR EMERGENCIES.

Know where all electrical switches and circuit breakers for hot tub equipment and lights are located and how to turn them off in an emergency. Learn how to perform CPR. Keep a First Aid kit close by.

7. RESPECT ELECTRICITY.

Use battery-operated appliances instead of cord-connected appliances in and around the hot tub.

8. KEEP WATER CLEAN.

Keep water clean, properly disinfected, and clear of debris. Also, showering before getting into a hot tub will help keep the water cleaner.

9. KEEP WATER SAFE.

Keep the water temperature at no hotter than 104 degrees Fahrenheit. Kids typically like the water cooler: 100 degrees or below.

10. USE A LOCKING COVER BEFORE AND AFTER HOT TUBBING.

Having a locking cover and using it are a must with hot tub ownership. They protect children from danger, save energy, and keep debris out of the hot tub. The best hot tub cover made is by Sunstar which is equipped with locks. Even the best cover won’t prevent accidents if you don’t remember to lock it after every use.

Now you can relax and enjoy your party and the hot tub knowing you understand hot tub safety.

SANUM PER AQUA. Latin for Health through Water.

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Hot Tub Etiquette. Everything You Need to Know to Entertain With Ease.

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Hot Tub Buyers Guide: 10 Tips for Buying the Right One the FIRST Time

Hot tub shopping this weekend? Be sure to check out Hot Spring Spas found exclusively throughout Puget Sound at Olympic Hot Tub’s stores in Seattle, Fife, Everett, Issaquah & Lacey. Here’s why:

10. THE SIGHT

New Euro-styling makes a Hot Spring a sleek alternative to the old boxy tubs, and the new vibrant colors sparkle, especially at night. Cabinets come in the most popular wood colors, from faux redwood and Cape Cod gray to African wenge and even faux stone to match any landscape.

9. THE SOUND

Bubbling fountains add a tranquil aspect to tubbing. They’re also the only sound you and your neighbors will hear from your silent-running Hot Spring Spa. Many scientific studies show that sitting by a fountain or waterfall is very soothing. Hot Spring Spas, with new fountains backlit with LED lighting, bring more relaxation home with their many water features that will become the centerpiece of your backyard escape.

8. THE LIGHTS

LED lighting makes the modern Hot Spring Spa experience more romantic and dramatic than ever. Lights encircle the tub, mood lights color the water in pleasant waves, and path lights guide your way to the tub. These LED lights last longer and cost far less to operate than conventional lighting.

7. THE TECHNOLOGY

The new ACE Salt Sanitizing System is an option on all Hot Spring Spas & Limelight Hot Tubs. It’s the first completely integrated salt system for hot tubs. No more hassle with harsh chemicals – a diamond electrode breaks salt and water into powerful sanitizers, and the system is as hands free as you’ll find. One glance tells you it’s working.

6. THE TOUCH

Everything you need to control your hot tub  experience is at your fingertips with the Hot Spring Spas topside control panel that displays everything from temperature to jet settings.

5. THE SAVINGS

Hot Spring Spas are the most energy efficient hot tubs on the market-verified and backed by 3rd party independent laboratory testing. No other hot tubs can tubs can come close to the low operating cost of a Hot Spring Spa-$15 to $35 a month to operate, a fraction of  most hot tubs that typically drain your wallet of  $50-$75 a month. That’s because Hot Spring Spas come with full-foam insulation, heat capture systems, LED lights, corona discharge ozone systems, more power drawing less energy, custom fit insulated covers and synthetic wood cabinets that will not warp or let in cold air. More savings for you – and for the environment.

4. THE CLEAN

The revolutionary new SilkBalance® natural water care system replaces the old drudgery of testing, mixing and adding multiple chemicals to keep the water pure and clean. With the help of the corona discharge ozone system that’s standard on all Hot Spring Spas, SilkBalance requires a once a week application and the addition of small amounts of sanitizer or shock. That’s all it takes to keep you healthy and happy. Every hot tub from Olympic comes with  SilkBalance unless the ACE salt system is selected.

3. THE FEEL

Just as new features ease the stress of operating the tub, the tub washes away the stress of your day, your week, your life. The new jets on Hot Spring Spas provides a variety of actions, from pressure point jets to pulsing massage spinners. That gives the bather a full body massage, relaxing and invigorating from your neck to your toes, by the end of the interlude. Where does your back ache? There’s a jet system on a Hot Spring Spa to relieve you back, shoulder and neck pain! It’s like having your own private a masseuse on call 24/7.

2. THE FAMILY

It’s not just a hot tub. It’s a family entertainment center and gathering spot. You can choose multi-level seating to make sure everyone has a comfortable place. You can add stereo systems, I-pod docking stations, TVs and more to make your Hot Spring Spa a home theater experience complete with jets and hot water!

1. THE FUTURE

You will enjoy your new tub with family and friends not just now but far into the future. The synthetic Everwood cabinets, from recycled materials, will look good years from now, not blackened and mossy in our Northwest weather that meant sanding, staining and sealing the old cabinets. The high-tech features, the ease of operation, the environmental sustainability will provide peace of mind. And the soothing warmth and beauty of your water retreat will be yours to savor and to share. And, the 5-year parts and labor warranty with warranty service backed by Olympic Hot Tub Company gives you the peace of mind that let’s you soak to relax.

Hot tub shopping? If the model you’re considering doesn’t have all of the benefits above, you’ll be cheating yourself of a great opportunity for total relaxation.

Ready for a new hot tub?  Put a Hot Hot Spring Spa from Olympic Hot Tub at the top of your shopping list. Check out our Gigantic Memorial Day Sale. Plenty of demos, floor models and new spas ready to give you a daily vacation at home.  Warm up for summer! Have an old hot tub in your backyard? Trade-ins, of course!

SANUM PER AQUA. Latin for Health through Water.

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How To Throw a Great Memorial Day Hot Tub Party!

Memorial Day is the kick off to backyard entertaining. When you have a backyard hot tub, entertaining is easy!  Everyone is already psyched to have a good time.

Get started now. Follow these  10 Tips to create a fun hot tub party with good times to remember:

10. Invite the Fun People in Your Life-Omit the Grumps

Some friends will want to get in the hot tub, and others will be content to hang out by the snack table all night. Make your guest list according to which friends you think will have the most fun at your hot tub party. Keep in mind the maximum occupancy of your tub, so you don’t leave any guests sitting out in the cold.

9. Clean, Clear Water

Just as you’d clean your house before a big party, make sure your hot tub water is clean and sparkling before guests arrive. Check your supplies and make sure you have clarifier and sanitizer on hand. You want your guests to go “aah” with delight when you roll back the cover, not “yuck!”  Remember to check the hot tub periodically to make sure sanitizer levels are adequate.

8. Have a Plan B

Bad weather, a power outage, or crabby guests- you never know what could crop up to spoil your hot tub fun so plan other activities just in case you can’t go in the hot tub.

7. Party Food: Keep it on the Light Side

Stick to finger food that can be eaten in or out of the tub. Easy to eat items like veggies & dip, fresh fruit on skewers, chicken or shrimp kabobs, egg rolls, etc work best.  Avoid chips in the tub. If spilled, they make a party ending, gummy mess!

6. Drinks: Save the Alcohol for After Soaking

Have a selection of bottled waters, juices and sodas on hand to keep soakers hydrated while soaking. Alcohol? Alcohol’s effects are felt much more quickly in a hot tub-over consumption and a major hangover is a sure thing the next day. Save wine, beer and other alcoholic drinks for after soaking. You don’t want your guests to rue the day they accepted your invitation.

5. Provide Extra Bathing Suits

Most people are self-conscious around strangers. Some guests might “forget” their suits” in order to avoid soaking. Once they see all the fun everyone’s having, they’ll want to jump in, too. Have a selection of extra bathing suits and swim trunks on hand for guests who left their suits at home. Shop Ebay or outlet stores for bargains.

4. Extra Towels for the Thoughtful Touch

You can never have enough towels! Guests may get in and out of the tub multiple times, leading to damp towels that stop doing their job. Keep lots of clean, fresh towels on hand and stay on top of putting wet towels in the washer & dryer. Your guests will love you for it and so will your upholstered lawn furniture.

3. Add Hot Tub Accessories, Games and Door Prizes and Consider a Theme for your Party

All of the action will be centered around your hot tub, so pick up fun party favors, small door prizes, ducks for everyone to race, waterproof cards, floating checkerboards, etc. Solar powered lanterns are a beautiful way to light up the night. The Hawaiian theme is always in style. Waterproof leis add to the fun.

2. Cue the Soundtrack: Music is Must

Every party needs a soundtrack. Many newer hot tubs come with music and an iPod docking station. Choose your music with your guests’ taste in mind. Throw in some songs that add pizzazz to your party’s theme. For the tops in sound check out Olympic Hot Tub’s portable speaker: the Outcast.

1. Have Fun

If you, the host, aren’t having a good time, your guests won’t either. Sit back, relax and have a ball at your own hot tub party. You can never foresee all of the problems that can and do arise, so just go with the flow. Your guests will appreciate your approach to the evening and have fun themselves.

That’s the recipe for a great hot tub party!

SANUM PER AQUA. Latin for Health through Water.

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What’s the #2 Reason People Hate Their Hot Tubs?

You guessed it!  It’s hot tub noise. A noisy hot tub can ruin your sanity.

Quiet Hot Tubs Make Good Neighbors

Did you know that one of the biggest summertime complaints to city officials is hot tub noise?  That’s right.  Noise from a neighbor’s hot tub.  If it’s annoying to neighbors,  think how bad it is for the owners.

Why do people get rid of a perfectly good dishwasher and buy a noise free Bosch? You got it, it’s the appeal of not having to hear that incessant noise.

Peace starts at home with a noise-free Hot Spring Spa

Now you’ll understand why Olympic sells new Hot Spring spas to customers who bought brand X the first time around. It’s the noise that’s hard to take.

Your hot tub should promote peace for you and your neighbors.

Nobody wants to live next door to a car with a grinding motor in the middle of the night, which is how most hot tub pumps sound when the timer switches on to filter and heat. That can induce more stress than even a hot tub can heal.

Hot Spring Spa is the only hot tub engineered for no noise from heating and filtering. Hot Spring Spas filter all of the water 24/7 with a no-noise circulation pump that uses less energy than a 40-watt light bulb.

Noise hurts. It’s not just annoying – Noise Free America reports that long-term exposure to 65 decibels or more, and short-term exposure to 80 decibels or more, can have serious physical and mental effects.

Noise triggers the stressful “fight or flight” reaction, releasing cortisol and other harmful chemicals into the bloodstream that can build up and lead to cardiovascular disease, aggression, chronic fatigue, headaches, high blood pressure, mental illness, and anxiety. Noise also affects the endocrine and autonomic nervous systems. It can exacerbate mental health problems such as anxiety, stress, emotional instability, sexual impotence, mood swings and social conflicts. Noise really makes you tired – it’s a major cause of chronic fatigue syndrome – and it can contribute to high blood pressure and ulcers.

So when you go shopping for a hot tub, use your ears.

That rules out buying online, where you’re pretty much guaranteed to get a cheap noisy model no matter what you pay.

When you visit a showroom, ask to hear what the full tub sounds like when the heating and filtering mode is on. If the model is dry, that’s a sign the sound wouldn’t be pretty. And if you plan to put your tub on a deck or balcony, remember that a noisy pump is going to sound even worse on the vibrating floor.

Don’t trust your ears? Add the Decibel Meter Pro app to your smart phone and use it when you shop.

With Hot Spring Spa’s no-noise filtration system, you can put your tub on a deck or next to a window.  It’s stress-free peace, and peace of mind, so you can relax.  So can your neighbor.

Hot tub shopping? Put a Hot Spring at Olympic Hot Tub Company at the top of your list.  Come try one and hear the quiet for yourself.

SANUM PER AQUA. Latin for Health through Water.

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REG’S STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO SPRING CLEANING Your Hot Tub.

It’s easy to put your hot tub in top condition…thanks to these tips from Reg Akright, Head Service Technician, who’s celebrating 23 years at Olympic Hot Tub. That’s Reg at left with a service award he won.

♥ BEFORE YOU DRAIN & CLEAN THE SHELL

If you haven’t used your hot tub in awhile, but the water’s been sitting in it, use System Flush to clean out any mold, organic matter or bio-film from the plumbing lines. Let sit overnight and then drain.  Spring Special Regularly $19.95 Now only $16.95.

Now’s a perfect time to try SilkBalance! It’s all-natural & gives you soft smooth skin after every soak. No testing or mixing or adding anything but SilkBalance and shock. Before you do, add CleanStart to your tub and let sit overnight. Most “icky stuff” hides where you can’t see it. Use to “detoxify” and remove build up from normal use.

Restores hot tub plumbing and jets to like-new condition.

♥ DRAIN THE SPA AND CLEAN THE SHELL

Unplug 110V spas; turn all breakers off on 220V spas.

Use only shell cleaning agents approved by the manufacturer:  WindexÔ, SoftScrubÔ,

Alkalinity Increaser (baking soda).

For best results, use GelGloss Cleaner®. Thick and effective for removing oils, dirt, and scum from all spa surfaces, won’t scratch. Protects spa surface, repels dirt. GelGloss SPRING SPECIAL Save $1.00…Only $9.95

♥ CHECK EQUIPMENT BAY FOR CRITTERS.

Do you see mounds of fine, yellowish powder inside the equipment bay or near the spa, and reddish brown ants about ½” long? If you answered, yes, take action immediately.  Call an exterminator to rid your spa of carpenter ants. Other critters might have nested over the winter. If you see signs of them, call our Service Center 206-431-2876 for the rodent ridding fact sheet before acting!

♥ CHECK YOUR FILTERS.

Clean filters per the directions in your Hot Spring  Owners’ Manual using SeaKlear Spray Filter Cleanerä.  Spray spa filter, let soak and rinse off. Removes grease, oils and debris that collect on spa filters. Rejuvenates them to top filtering power. SeaKlear Filter Cleaner Save $3.00. Spring Special now only $10.95. The WaterWandÔ hand held filter cartridge cleaner is a big help when cleaning. Attach to hose; flick the switch. Saves water use by 50%.  SPRING SPECIAL $21.21

 Change filters every two-three years for superior water quality and lower chemical use.  If filters are clogged, dirty, cracked or pulled away from the base or darker than a manila folder, replace immediately.

If your spa is over 3 years old and you’ve never had new filters, order some today.

SPRING CLEANING SPECIAL: Save $5.00 on all Filters

♥ADD FRESH WATER. REFILLING TIPS:

When refilling, allow hose to run a few minutes (low pressure is fine), onto lawn or flowerbeds, before putting it into your spa. ·Always feed hose into your filter compartment when filling. This help prevents air locks that stop your tub from heating!

EverFresh® Water Care System Owners:  Change your Silver Ion Cartridge every four months. NOW you’ll receive a new cartridge once a quarter when you sign up for automatic shipment, and save $2.00 on each cartridge! FREE SHIPPING anywhere in the continental U.S. You’ll always have clean water! Call Olympic Hot Tub’s  Service Center today to get started with Silver Ion Home Delivery 206-431-2876 or Home Delivery from our estore.

♥ ADD START-UP WATER CARE PRODUCTS. Balance the water. Restart.

Note:  Use only sanitizers approved by Watkins Manufacturing (makers of all brands we sell): Sodium Dichloride, granular bromine or our proprietary system: EverFresh®.  Do not use tri-chlor (which is for swimming pools), any type of compressed bromine or chlorine, acid or any other than those recommended. Use of anything other than those recommended may void your spa warranty.

♥ NEED HELP OR A REFRESHER ON HOW TO CARE FOR YOUR SPA? Stop into any of our stores for a quick refresher on “how to” OR hire Olympic Hot Tub’s Valet Service for a one time drain, clean and water care lesson. Limited time special! $35 off a One Time Drain & Fill Service! Call our  Valet Service 206-431-2876 to schedule.

Now relax in your clean, clean hot tub.

SANUM PER AQUA. Latin for Health through Water.

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Top 7 Mother’s Day Gifts For Your Hot Tubbing Mom

You’re probably aware that this Sunday is Mother’s Day.  But, I’ll bet you haven’t done anything about it… yet. It’s not too late.

What better gift than something that will increase your mom’s pleasure when she uses her hot tub.  Here’s our Olympic Hot Tub Company list of the 7 best hot tub accessories for your hot tubbing mom.  We’ve combined the functional, the fun, the useful and the silly. There’s something for every budget. Order today any Olympic Hot Tub location or online so you’ll have your gift ready for mom on Sunday.

7.  An OutCast-the Ultimate Outdoor Wireless Speaker. Mom will enjoy a party everyday when she owns this speaker.  The OutCast weather-resistant, wireless speaker lets her enjoy rich multi-directional stereo sound throughout your home, in your yard, on your patio, next to your Hot Spring Spa and even on your boat. Mother’s Day Special: regularly $900. for the unit with iCast Transmitter. Save $105. when you mention this blog post. Only $795. See at all Olympic Hot Tub Company stores or call the Service Center to order: 206 431-2876.

6.  Spa Umbrella. Your mom will love this hot tub umbrella! Made of powder-coated aluminum, it has an ample canopy for protection from the elements while she soaks. Or, swing the canopy 180 degrees and she can use it to shade a chaise or patio table.  This umbrella covers a 9′ area with an overall height of 8’6″. Canopy made of Sunbrella fabric for mildew & UV resistance. There’s even LED lighting on the underside for ambience & reading with a rechargeable battery pack. 5 colors: Terracotta, Sage Green, Camel, Red and Graphite. It’s the perfect complement to every backyard. A wonderful gift. Only $695.00.

5. Ego iPod Waterproof Floating Speaker

Mom can take it to the lake, beach or float it in her hot tub. The Ego Waterproof Sound Case is a portable iPod speaker system that let’s her share her music wherever she goes. It’s spill-proof, shatterproof, water-resistant in the shower, pool, at the park or on road trips. Includes 35 FREE music downloads. Compatible with iPod Video, Photo, Nano and Minis.

Regular price: $159.00 Now Save $69. Special for Mother’s Day only: $90.00

4. Towel Bar. What a great addition to her hot tub- a place to hang her towel while she’s soaking. It’s powder-coated aluminum so it’s durable and won’t rust. Easy installation. Regular price: $37.00 Now on Sale for Mother’s Day only: $31.45

3. Spazazz Aromatherapy Crystals. Perfect for your mom’s hot tub. Give her a break from the ordinary. Spazazz Rx Aromatherapy Crystals are specially formulated natural blends designed to target specific ailments while soaking she’s soaking in her hot tub. Enriched with vitamins C, A, K, E, Arnica & Calendula. Save for Mother’s Day. Now Only $13.95 for 19 ounces. Enough for many relaxing soaks. Select from one of these 6 special blends: Muscular Therapy; Joint Therapy; Detox Therapy; Respiratory Therapy; Energy Therapy; Stress Therapy.

2. Waterproof Playing Cards are a must for all hot tub parties. These cards are made of 100% plastic, durable and waterproof.  Waterproof cards for fun. Only $14.00

1. SilkBalance-THE BEST GIFT OF ALL FOR YOUR HOT TUBBING MOM.

It’s natural water care the easy way-eliminates all balancing additives, eliminates testing & measuring. Just “Shake and Pour”-once a week for the softest skin and the cleanest, natural bathing water-instantly.

- No more dry skin. Feels Great. Mom and the whole family will notice the difference instantly. The water feels softer and will leave your skin silky smooth. No more dry, itching skin after the usual hot tubbing in harsh chemicals. Even if she or other family members suffer from psoriasis or eczema, it will not irritate sensitive skin. Dermatologically tested. Safe. Effective.
- No Chemical smells! We can guarantee that mom would love to NOT smell chemicals when she soaks.
- Pure and Clean. SilkBalance to provides a safe, natural bathing environment in the hot tub.

Mom will thank you over and over for helping her enjoy her hot tub even more. Order SilkBalance today for the best Mother’s Day Gift Ever.

SANUM PER AQUA. Latin for Health through Water.

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Hot Tub Therapy Helps Children with Serious Health Issues

Did you know that hot tub therapy is very beneficial for some childhood illnesses and muscle conditions?  (And It’s Fun)

Hot tub play can be therapeutic for children, especially for those with conditions that benefit from the water’s warmth, buoyant support and muscle-building resistance. That includes a range of muscular, skeletal and neurological disorders, from autism and asthma to scoliosis and spinal bifida. Many hospitals and therapy centers include hot tub time in their treatments.

Cool down the water to between 90°F and 94°F for aquatic therapy with younger children, maybe 100°F to 102°F for older kids who are going in only waist-deep. This will keep them from getting too tired. They can safely stay in the cooler water 10 minutes for every year of age – 20 minutes for a 2-year-old, 100 minutes for a 10-year-old. This is only a suggestion. Be sure to check with your personal physician before letting your child with one of these conditions soak in the hot tub.   Grownups, of course, can tolerate up to 104°F for 15-20  minutes at a time.

Make sure the water is absolutely pristine! If your child is ill, he or she will likely have a compromised immune system. Don’t risk further health issues by having them soak in dirty water. SilkBalance is ideal as a hot tub water treatment because it’s soft on skin, doesn’t irritate eyes and maintains water quality with little effort.

Physical therapist Kristin Cooley of Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta, which treats about 50 children a month with water therapy, says parents often can help with the therapy at home under a professional’s guidance. Cooley identifies benefits for these conditions:

* Juvenile Rheumatoid Arthritis and Hot Tub Therapy.

The water’s buoyancy helps support a broader range of motion for children with joint inflammation and muscle weakness while the water’s resistance helps strengthen muscles. Jet turbulence in the tub can teach better balance, and kids can boost their endurance with aerobic exercises in the water. Take it easy during a flare-up, but otherwise encourage more activity during the session.

* Cystic Fibrosis and Asthma and Hot Tub Therapy.

The pressure of the water on the chests helps strengthen the diaphragm, leading to more lung capacity, breath control, and rib mobility. Because chemicals are evaporating from the water within 18 inches of the surface, children with these problems should spend only about10 minutes with their face that close, and maybe another 10 minutes waist-deep.

* Cerebral Palsy and Hot Tub Therapy. The water’s support helps children stand, walk and keep better balance. The jets and warm water loosen muscles and ease pain.

* Brittle Bones and Hot Tub Therapy.  Children whose bones break easily because of osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) can exercise more safely in the water. The sessions strengthen their muscles and improve mobility and motor skills.

* Scoliosis and Hot Tub Therapy. Buoyancy and resistance in the water strengthen muscles on the weak side of the curved spine and even help improve the body’s alignment.

* Autism & Sensory Integration Dysfunction and Hot Tub Therapy. The physical sensation of water on the body helps calm children who have autism. The environment magnifies sounds and sights, including echoes and light reflecting off the water, in ways that can benefit the children.

* Spina Bifida and Hot Tub Therapy. Time in the water can help strengthen the upper body of children who suffer from the birth defect that leaves them with improperly formed vertebrae. The condition affects their center of gravity, and the tub sessions can help them learn to orient themselves.

Of course, you don’t have to tell the kids it’s good for them – just let them have fun! It’s just another way your hot tub helps your peace of mind.

Please do check with your personal physician before you let your child suffering from one of these conditions soak in hot water.

Thanks to Creative Energy Hot Tubs in the San Francisco Bay Area for the ideas found in this post.

SANUM PER AQUA. Latin for Health through Water.

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Use Hot Tub Water to Water Your Garden Without Harming Your Plants

Since May is the beginning of the BIG gardening season in Seattle and the time when rain is less frequent, gardeners start to think about having to water their flowers and lawns. Yes, gardeners in the Northwest will have to pick up a hose and actually add water to their gardens.

Here’s a question posted on the Recycle This website that will be of interest to every hot tub owner:

“I want to use the water from my hot tub on the garden. It’s a great waste to just put it down the drain.  The water has chlorine in it.  Is there any way I can remove the chlorine from it to make it safe to water my garden?”

YES! Read on.

A few years ago when Seattle was in the middle of a drought, the City of Seattle Water Department called me to discuss using hot tub water to irrigate lawns and flowers (although not vegetable gardens). The topic came under the heading of  “gray” water- that is, water that has been used once and is no longer pristine.

The City of  Seattle is all in favor of using hot tub water to irrigate lawns and flowerbeds provided that gardeners follow our recommended method for draining safely:

CHLORINE

When you’re ready to drain, do not add chlorine for 1-2 days. Chlorine is very hard on plant life. However, it dissipates so quickly from a very hot hot tub (which is why you have to keep adding it!) that in a day or so there is no chlorine present in the tub.  Leave the lid open. Check chlorine levels with a test kit to make sure they are at zero. If they’re not, run the jets for 1-2 hours with the lid open and the chlorine will be gone.

pH

Plants in Seattle are accustomed to a slightly acid rain and tap water. If the hot tub water is too alkaline, plant life may suffer. Check to make sure that the hot tub water tests in the 7.2-7.4 range (neutral) before draining. If not, adjust the pH and run the jets to make sure any chemicals you’ve added are thoroughly mixed.

Switch to SilkBalance.

SilkBalance is made of all natural ingredients that do the job of balancing the water.  Use of SilkBalance will not harm flowers or lawns and pets can drink it with no ill effects. A hot tub that is treated with SilkBalance can be drained anytime you want to do it. No waiting until harmful chlorine is dissipated.

Follow the steps above to reuse your hot tub water safely for watering your lawn and plants.  Wherever you live, make sure it’s legal to use gray water on your garden plants. Check with your local municipality for any rules concerning hot tub draining and use of gray water.

SANUM PER AQUA. Latin for Health through Water.

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