Paraffin wax is widely used by therapists to reduce pain and increase movement in patients' hands and feet. It is effective for treating the symptoms of carpal tunnel syndrome, arthritis and gout. Now widely available at drug stores or online, paraffin wax kits are simple to use.
Benefits of Paraffin
Paraffin wax treatments provide a controlled moist heat. The wax's specific heat helps increase circulation and loosen synovial fluid in joints, which can prepare your hands for exercise or function. As a beauty treatment, paraffin also moisturizes the skin and opens pores.
Origin of Paraffin
Therapeutic wax treatments date back to the Roman Empire, when Romans would apply hot wax to the body before massages. The paraffin used today is refined from crude mineral oil and is laboratory tested to ensure its hygienic purity. Additionally, mineral oils can be added. For instance, wintergreen or peppermint can be invigorating, or lavender can have a calming effect, helping further reduce pain. Follow manufacture's instructions for the proportion of wax to oil because too much oil will increase the paraffin bath treatment's temperature and increase your burn risk.
Application of Paraffin
Put towels and sheets of plastic wrap near the paraffin bath. Remove all jewelry, and wash your hands thoroughly to decrease the risk of contaminating the paraffin bath. After the paraffin has reached 120 to 125 degrees Fahrenheit, place your hand or foot into the paraffin wax and remove quickly without splashing the wax. Allow your hand to drip dry over the paraffin bath for seven to 10 seconds; as it dries, it will have a translucent appearance. Repeatedly dip and dry your hand or foot until you have seven layers of wax. Dip a little less deeply each time so that new wax does not go above the previous layer, which can increase your burn risk. Wrap the wax layer completely in plastic wrap, and then wrap the hand or foot with a towel to keep the heat at therapeutic levels.
Removal of Paraffin
After 15 minutes, the optimal effect has been achieved, and the wax should be removed. The wax will have formed a soft "glove" on your hand or foot and can be removed by peeling away the entire glove slowly. You can reuse the paraffin by placing it into the wax bath to be melted.
Contraindications
There are instances when paraffin should not be used. Because paraffin can, rarely, cause burns, anyone with decreased circulation should avoid paraffin treatments. Also, wait to start paraffin wax baths until any open areas or cuts are completely healed. Those with uncontrolled hypertension should not use wax baths.
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