Make Your Own Paraffin Therapy Spa for Pain Relief

Pain due to chronic conditions and temporary medical needs all benefit from paraffin spa therapy. Paraffin therapy baths are recommended by rheumatologists, orthopedists, and physical therapists for arthritis, fibromyalgia, sprains, and more.

Always consult a physician before using a paraffin bath for pain relief. There are many conditions for not using a paraffin bath - Examples include, but are not limited to: Any condition which began in the last 36 hours, open cuts, malignant tumors, tendencies to swell or bleed/hemorrhage, and more.

Spa Containers

A paraffin spa is simple to make for home use. Supplies are common and easy to find across North America, and comparable items elsewhere can be substituted.

A good quality container is the most important item to have on hand. The best option is a 5 quart oval-shaped, slow cooker or digital, programmable Crock Pot®. An old fashioned double boiler will work also, but will take more diligence and work in the process. The oval-shaped slow cooker is easiest to immerse a hand or foot into. In other words, the oval shape is more ergonomic than the round shape of a double boiler or some Crock Pot® designs.

Slow cookers and double boilers of various brands may be found new from $10-$50 at discount department stores like Target®, Wal-Mart®, Costco®, Sam's Club®, or for cheaper prices in good used condition at thrift stores and rummage sales.

Spa Supplies

Getting the supplies together is most important and the rest goes quickly toward the ultimate goal of drug-free pain relief anytime. The checklist includes:

New or Used:

5 quart-size oval-shaped slow cooker, Crock Pot®, or double-boiler

1 thick terry cloth hand towel

From the Baking/Canning Aisle at Super Wal-Mart® or any larger grocery:

4 to 6 pounds sanitary paraffin wax

1 candy thermometer

Recycled from your last shopping trip:

1 plastic grocery bag

From the Laxatives Aisle at Wal-Mart®, Walgreen's®, or Target®:

1 pint mineral oil

As an option, instead of the mineral oil, either food-grade almond oil or Sicilian extra-virgin olive oil may be used in the paraffin recipe. Both of these oils contain natural anti-inflammatory properties. Essential Oil drops may also be added sparingly as aroma therapy, with scents such as: lavender, mint, peach, orange, vanilla, and chocolate can be very soothing.

Steps to Make Paraffin BathClean

1. the paraffin container: slow cooker or double-boiler thoroughly and let dry.
2. Measure cold, hard paraffin wax by the pound into the paraffin container, up to 4 pounds to start. More can be added as needed after initial melting is completed.
3. Measure mineral oil into paraffin container, about 1/3 cup per pound of paraffin wax. 4 pounds of cold paraffin would have added 1 cup plus 1/3 cup of mineral oil to it (or the substitute almond or olive oil).
4. Heat paraffin to a maximum 125 degrees Fahrenheit. Do not heat higher than this temperature. Medical facilities set their heat therapy devices between 115 and 125 degrees for pain relief therapy. Burns can result at higher temperatures.

When Making Your Own Is Not an Option

Making a paraffin pain therapy spa is not for everyone. There are other options. Beauty spas and physical therapists both offer paraffin treatments. Call the local spas and therapy centers for pricing. Here in the Tucson, Arizona area, costs about a $1.00 a minute.

Personal paraffin therapy baths are also available for sale at various retailers. For further reading on buying paraffin baths and ready-to-use supplies, see Lynn Pritchett's review of various paraffin baths at: Paraffin Baths for Pain Relief: Comparing Sizes and Prices.

Some health insurance benefits may help with cost, so check coverage options before paying for these higher cost paraffin therapies.

Correct Use of Paraffin for Pain Relief

It is important to use a paraffin bath correctly to get the full pain relief benefit. For further reading on this topic, see Lynn Pritchett's article, How to Use Paraffin Therapy at Home for Drug Free Pain Relief, also here at the AC.

Disclaimer

Information in this article is solely the personal expression and experience of the author. This article does not replace medical advice. The information contained here is for simple informational purposes. Before conducting any action stated in this, or any article written by Lynn Pritchett, readers are advised to seek counsel from licensed professionals.