There are many health conditions that can benefit from the chain reactions that occur when you immerse your body in warm water with therapeutic massage jets. Water exercise in a heated pool improves strength and mobility in elderly patients with arthritis in their hips and knees. (Annals of the Rheumatic Diseases, December 2003)Medical experts say that, over time, the warmth of the hot tub brings about positive changes in your circulatory system. After a few minutes, the blood vessels dilate, lessening blood pressure: the muscles relax; pain is temporarily relieved; the body cleans itself (through perspiration); healing is promoted; and insomnia is lessened. Hydrotherapy is also used to treat muscle weakness, balance disorders, diabetes and other diseases that impair circulation, cramps, premenstrual syndrome, arthritis, back pain, musculoskeletal injuries and soft tissue injuries. When focused on the back it is useful for diseases of the lungs, bronchial asthma, multiple sclerosis, spinal disease, back pain and weakened back muscles. Consult your physician if you think a hot tub might be the medicine you have been looking for.