What is wax therapy?
Wax therapy is a deep heat treatment method wherein applying heat improves mobility through heating the connective tissues. The therapy uses molten paraffin wax application to the connecting tissues, causing the muscles to relax. It also makes the joints more mobile. The therapeutic treatment is primarily used for pain in the hands and feet. Combining the therapy with personalized exercises and other mobilizing techniques come to help.
The therapists in hospitals apply molten wax on the arms and legs based on the doctor’s prescription, and assist in reducing stiffness and helps in movement before exercises. It is a safe technique but never applied at home without supervision. It is one of the most effective methods of applying heat to the connective tissues and improves mobility.
Heated wax is applied to the affected area with a small amount of mineral oil. There are different types of therapies to note.
In this method, the hand or foot is placed in the liquid paraffin wax bath and taken out when a thin layer of paraffin forms over the affected area. The liquid wax sticks to the skin and covers it fully. The specialists repeat the procedure up to ten times until the formation of the thick paraffin coat.
Using a brush or applicator, wax is applied on specific parts of the hand and feet.
In this method, molten wax is poured through a utensil on the affected area and wrapped with a towel.
In this method, you have to dip a bandage or towel in hot molten wax and wrap it around the affected part. It is used for the treatment of the body parts that are placed in the center.
The immersion method dipping the affected body part and forms a protective covering. The immersion of the hand or feet must take place for the prescribed time or until the wax melts. Often, the padding on the edge of the container makes people more comfortable during the treatment.
Paraffin wax used for therapeutic purposes is safe for the skin, but people with sensitive skin must exercise caution as it may result in heat rash. The heat rash manifests itself in the form of red itchy bumps on the skin, causing discomfort.
The application of molten paraffin wax provides cosmetic and therapeutic benefits.
Molten paraffin wax has several therapeutic benefits and treats ailments, such as fibromyalgia, rheumatoid arthritis, joint immobility, and osteoarthritis. Applying molten paraffin wax on the affected area increases blood flow, reduces join stiffness, and relaxes muscles. It also reduces inflammation, muscle spasms, and treats sprains.
The application of liquid paraffin wax benefits people in several ways.
The wax therapy is safe, but it is not safe for people with:
When preparing to apply molten paraffin wax for therapeutic or cosmetic treatment, checking the temperature is essential. While dipping the hand or foot in the heated and liquid wax, dip them a little less than before to prevent skin burns. It is necessary to check the skin for wounds, infections, and rashes. No jewelry must remain on the affected part. The fear of heat must reduce before applying wax on hands or feet.
A few days after applying molten paraffin wax, the skin of the hands and feet becomes soft and hydrated. The muscle stiffness, inflammation, and pain also reduce after the therapy.