Wax Therapy for Hands is a physiotherapy treatment using paraffin wax. This is one of the most effective ways of applying heat to improve hand joint mobility by warming the connective tissues. It is used by our physiotherapist in conjunction with gentle mobilising techniques and a tailored exercise programme.

It is ideal for pain relief and maintaining movement in arthritic hands as well as for post-traumatic stiff hands. These common conditions cause pain and disability.

Paraffin wax is obtained from refined mineral crude oil. It is a nontoxic substance and does not cause any adverse reaction when it comes in contact with the skin.

As it has a very low melting temperature (52-54°C). It is not going to cause any burns or blisters and does not get stuck to the skin.

Warm wax has several benefits:

1. It helps to bring down the aches and pains in the hands
2. Relaxes sore and tired muscles
3. Hydrates the skin making it soft and smooth

Chronic Pain, Arthritis Relief and Musculoskeletal conditions that are longstanding often benefit from heat therapy, such as paraffin wax treatments. Besides keeping joints mobile, paraffin wax helps reduce chronic pain associated with fibromyalgia, strains, sprains and muscle spasms. Rheumatoid arthritis and Sudecks atrophy sufferers can also get relief.

Pain caused by arthritis, muscle stiffness or injury may be relieved from paraffin wax therapy. The heat from the paraffin wax can penetrate through and help relax tense muscles and small joints of the hands and fingers. The warmth improves blood flow and relieves inflammation.

Although our main outcomes are relieving joint pain and improving mobility, there are other great skin benefits to using paraffin wax therapy.

Paraffin wax contains a mineral oil that can help soften skin and may help the sufferers of scleroderma where there is an overproduction of the collagen fibers that give structure to the skin, causing skin to become thickened and tight. This restricts blood flow and makes movement in the joints difficult and painful. The heat from paraffin wax opens the pores and increases blood circulation in the skin leaving it warm, softens the skin and keeps joints mobile.

If the skin is dry or cracked due to a medical condition, cold weather or stress the paraffin wax can rehydrate and help the skin to become smooth. The skin’s colour can also improve to a healthier tone.

Please contact us if you would like to know more.