Hot baths can ease pain of circulatory disease

By the Editorial Team · Tuesday, October 20, 2026

Researchers at Manchester Metropolitan University are testing whether sitting in hot water baths can reduce leg pain and improve mobility in older adults with peripheral artery disease. If successful, this heat therapy could offer a less painful alternative to exercise for enhancing blood flow, although experts caution that individuals with certain heart conditions should seek medical advice before trying it.

A new study is investigating whether regular hot water immersion can alleviate symptoms of peripheral artery disease (PAD), a circulatory condition causing leg pain and mobility limitations in older adults. The trial, funded by the British Heart Foundation (BHF) and led by researchers at Manchester Metropolitan University, involves volunteers sitting in hot tubs at 40 degrees Celsius for 40 minutes, three times a week over an eight-week period.

PAD occurs when arteries supplying blood from the heart become narrowed due to fat buildup, leading to reduced blood flow often experienced as leg pain, particularly during walking. The condition affects about 20% of people over the age of 60. Many individuals with PAD find exercise painful, hindering their ability to improve circulation through physical activity.

The current study aims to assess whether heat therapy can promote blood flow and reduce discomfort in affected limbs. Participants have their walking distance and pain levels measured before and after the intervention. Among the first volunteers is 75-year-old Ken Heywood, a retired engineer from Stockport, who reported improvements following the treatment. Heywood described reaching the top of a nearby hill—something he previously struggled with—as a significant milestone, despite needing occasional breaks.

Amy Harwood, the study lead, highlighted the potential of heat therapy as a more enjoyable alternative to exercise for PAD patients. She emphasized that while exercise is commonly recommended to improve blood circulation, the associated pain can discourage consistent participation. Harwood noted that the essential component is exposure to hot water, with or without added elements like bubbles or bath toys.

Despite promising early reports, health experts urge caution. Regina Giblin of the BHF advised individuals with cardiovascular conditions to consult healthcare professionals before attempting hot water immersion. She warned that prolonged exposure to high temperatures might pose risks, especially for those with a history of angina, irregular heart rhythms, or unstable blood pressure.

The study continues to monitor the effects of frequent hot bathing on leg blood flow and pain in the hope that heat therapy may offer a safe and effective method to improve the quality of life for people living with peripheral artery disease. Final results are still pending, and medical consultation remains crucial before adopting such treatments independently.

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