Hydromassage foot baths
If you often suffer from migraines, insomnia or seasonal colds, are completely devoid of energy in the evening, and your legs feel like they are filled with lead, give yourself a little holiday by organizing a spa at home.
This is not at all difficult to do and is not even too expensive - compact hydromassage baths, which affect the acupuncture points of the foot and literally bring their tired owner back to life, have a very affordable price. In any store selling beauty and health products, a consultant will offer a wide selection of devices with a varied set of functions, the cost of which ranges from approximately one and a half to fifteen thousand rubles.
Among the impressive assortment, there are suitable models for every taste and budget, but before making a purchase, it is advisable to understand what this miracle device is and how it works. Even a small set of knowledge will help you make the right choice: you will understand which functions are vital for your legs, and what you should not overpay for.
Design and principle of operation
A hydromassage bathtub is a round or rectangular plastic container similar to a compact basin. To operate, it is connected to an electrical network and controlled using levers and buttons on the body or from a remote control. The bottom of the device is usually embossed, with built-in rollers, which carry out the massage. To prevent moisture from splashing onto the floor during the procedure, the front part of the bath is equipped with a splash-proof visor. Its legs are usually stable and rubberized - with them you can install the bath on any surface, from tiles to linoleum, without fear that the device will slip due to vibration.
Depending on the model, the device can operate in several different modes. The most common of them are:
- hydromassage;
- vibration massage;
- bubble massage;
- infrared heating.
The hydromassage effect is achieved due to the vortex movement of water flows in the bath. Since the dimensions of the device are quite compact, to enhance the result, manufacturers usually supplement this function with another type of massage - vibration or bubble.
Vibration causes the bottom of the device to vibrate, and the rollers built into it rotate at this time, affecting the acupuncture zones located on the feet. This procedure not only relieves the feeling of heaviness in the legs, but also has a positive effect on the entire body, healing it and energizing it.
Baths with bubble massage are small analogues of a jacuzzi, in which it is so pleasant to soak in after a busy and stressful day. By dipping your feet into the rushing water, you will instantly relax, forget about all your troubles and, if you wish, you will even find the strength to go to a fiery party!
Another useful feature found in many models is infrared heating. It is suitable not only for rest and relaxation, but will also be an excellent therapeutic and preventive procedure for those who have problems with joints. Due to the infrared emitters built into the bath, blood flow in your legs is activated, and soft warmth covers and warms your feet. This function has a beneficial effect on joint health, eliminates pain and inflammation, and, if desired, can be used both together with massage and independently.
Purpose
In gynecology, vaginal baths are prescribed very often. All manipulations are quite simple, but they must be performed by an experienced doctor. The gynecologist fills a certain part of this reproductive organ with a special solution, thereby providing a therapeutic effect. The approximate exposure time for medications and other components is about 15 minutes. The number of procedures is determined by complete recovery or elimination of the inflammatory process.
In gynecology, vaginal baths are often prescribed. Source: cistitus.ru
Among the main indications for vaginal baths are the following:
- Preparatory period before surgery;
- Preparation of reproductive organs for examination;
- Diagnosed cervicitis;
- Identified erosion;
- Detected endocervicitis;
- Progressive colpitis.
Since the procedure is medical, it is not surprising that experts identify a number of conditions in which it is impossible to perform it. Vaginal baths are not done during menstrual and other bleeding, if there is a possibility of miscarriage, labor has recently occurred, or an abortion has been performed.
Additional options
In addition to the basic ones, manufacturers have provided hydromassage baths with an impressive list of pleasant additional options. These include:
- built-in magnets;
- timer and remote control;
- compartment for adding oils, sea salt or herbal infusions;
- function of heating water, adjusting and maintaining it at a certain level;
- possibility of “dry” massage;
- removable attachments for pedicure.
Which functions are necessary and which you can do without is up to you to decide. To make the right choice, read the brief information about each of these options.
Magnets are elements built into the device to enhance blood flow and relieve the feeling of heaviness in the legs. They will be especially useful for those who suffer from foot pain or have chosen a bath that does not have an infrared heating function. In addition to the direct effect on the legs, magnetic therapy can be useful for the body as a whole, since it accelerates the removal of waste and toxins, activates blood flow and improves the saturation of cells with oxygen.
The remote control is a convenient addition for people who plan to change modes frequently and do not want to endlessly bend over to a bathtub installed on the floor. The timer will appeal to lovers of books or television series - they will be able to enthusiastically indulge in a hobby without fear of accidentally exceeding the recommended session time.
A bathtub with a compartment for adding essential oils, herbal infusions or sea salt will be an indispensable purchase for people with weakened immune systems or various health problems. Using this simple device, you will not only give your legs a rest, but also increase the body's defenses, exhausted by frequent stress, poor diet and lack of sleep. The most effective “helpers” for you in this matter will be:
- Infusion of black elderberry that instantly relieves fatigue;
- a mixture of calendula and chamomile that helps get rid of colds;
- an infusion of pine needles that calms the nerves and helps you sleep soundly at night;
- nettle that removes cracks and calluses;
- a solution of sea salt that serves as a prophylaxis against influenza and ARVI;
- an infusion of sage, St. John's wort or oak bark that reduces hypersecretion of sweat glands;
- Infusion of lemon balm and chamomile that removes swelling.
Adding various essential oils to water also has a significant effect. For example, a few drops of rosemary will help invigorate, ylang-ylang or lavender will relieve dryness and cracked heels, lemon will make you forget about sweating, and tea tree will prevent the appearance of fungus.
The function of heating water and maintaining a certain temperature is not the most important, because before the session you can immediately pour liquid of the desired degree of heating into the bath. However, this option will be useful for those who like long sessions - after 5-10 minutes, the water will noticeably cool down, reducing the pleasure of the procedure.
Dry massage, performed without adding water, is much less pleasant than traditional massage. It will not appeal to those who are afraid of tickling, but it will help if you have to go out into the cold street in the near future, and therefore it is not advisable to steam your feet.
Pumice stones, brushes and other removable attachments for pedicure are a necessary thing for girls who are sensitive to the appearance of their feet. After all, during hydromassage, the skin on them will be more ready than ever for cosmetic procedures, and you can save time by combining care and relaxation procedures.
Review of several popular models
To make it easier for you to figure out which devices you should pay attention to first, study the brief characteristics of several hot tubs made by the most popular and trusted manufacturers.
The Beurer FB14 model is an easy-to-use and budget-friendly device that is offered to customers by one of the leading German brands in the field of beauty and health products. Despite the apparent simplicity and affordable price, in this device you will find all the functions necessary for a comfortable massage: vibration, hydro and bubble massage, water temperature control and the ability to use sea salt and herbs.
Homedics ELMS-250-EU foot bath is a more sophisticated model. In addition to traditional vibration and hydromassage, it is equipped with a bubble jacuzzi function and built-in magnets, has four rollers for influencing the feet and two pedicure attachments. A water heater will allow the housewife not to limit the time of the procedure, and the spectacular transparent walls will please her aesthetic taste.
Another German-made device – Medisana FS 885 Comfort – is an example of the optimal balance between high functionality and reasonable price. This bath is suitable for all members of a large family, even if they have completely different preferences. The spacious container will fit not only your graceful legs, but also the feet of your beloved husband, despite the fact that his foot has grown to size 46. There is vibration, hydromassage, heated water, and massage rollers for influencing reflex zones can be easily removed if necessary. The bath has a lot of adjustments that allow you to adapt to each user: its temperature varies from 20 to 48 degrees, and the shutdown timer can be set to 20, 30, 40, 50 minutes and even an entire hour.
Athletes and girls who are actively involved in fitness will appreciate the capabilities of another model, HANSUN HS815. Its main difference from its “brothers” is its increased capacity and high sides, thanks to which not only the feet, but also the calves and ankles are immersed in the massaging water flow. It is no secret that from active physical activity or walking for a long time in heels, pain is often concentrated in the calf area. Gently warming and relaxing this area, the spa bath quickly gives the owner relaxation and calm, allowing her to forget about the consequences of an active workout. The device holds up to 20 liters of water, but you won’t have to effortlessly carry it around the room, since the manufacturer has provided compact wheels with locking capabilities at the bottom. Draining the water from the tank is also very easy thanks to the built-in drain valve. The bath is equipped with several kneading rollers, a fountain-shaped outlet and the ability to warm up and adjust the water temperature.
Kinds
The range of massage baths today is very wide, it is quite difficult to navigate it on your own. Which bath is better and how do they differ apart from the price? The first thing you should pay attention to is the number of massage modes. The following types exist:
- vibration;
- mechanical (roller);
- bubble (“jacuzzi”, hydromassage);
- acupuncture.
Most models combine several modes at once. The second important difference between baths is the presence or absence of heated water. Most often, they only maintain its temperature for a certain time. Please note that most hydromassage baths exclude the possibility of using various gels, herbal infusions, and oils. Only special sea salt can be added to the water. The power of the device also matters: cheap models create minimal vibrations, while more expensive ones provide intense massage. Another difference between foot massage baths is a set of additional functions, such as magnetic therapy, infrared radiation, remote control and a number of others. And finally, a foot massage bath can be very noisy; some models completely drown out the sound of the TV.
Contraindications
Having gained a general understanding of the principles of operation, the capabilities of hydromassage devices, and even getting to know some functional models better, you are quite ready to make a competent, thoughtful purchase. All that remains is to find out about one more small but extremely important detail - contraindications to using the bath. So, in what cases can this device cause harm rather than benefit?
Restrictions include:
- phlebeurysm;
- cardiovascular diseases;
- inflammation, scratches and other skin damage in the massaged area;
- diabetes;
- tumors of any kind;
- renal failure;
- risk of thrombosis;
- acute stage of disease, accompanied by elevated body temperature.
Pregnant women should use a bath to relieve swelling with great caution and only after consulting their doctor. This limitation is due to the fact that during hydromassage through acupuncture points, the impact also affects internal organs, which can negatively affect the well-being of the expectant mother and the health of the baby.
Rules of application
There is nothing difficult about preparing a foot bath at home. And although this is a fairly simple procedure, however, it requires compliance with some rules common to all appointments:
- Apply strictly in accordance with the expected effect. If you want to get rid of an unpleasant odor, then cold baths are unlikely to help
- Prepare everything you need in advance: you should have the bath itself, water, supplements, a towel, a soft brush, foot cream and socks ready.
- Observe the proportions of additives. The effect will be achieved if you do everything in accordance with the recommendations. They are different for each ingredient.
- Keep track of the time. For a bath, a period of 10-20 minutes is recommended.
- Since this is a fairly effective remedy, consult your doctor first to see if you have any contraindications.
- To consolidate success and complete the procedure, after the bath, massage your feet with a soft brush, wipe dry and lubricate with emollient cream.