Can washing feet with hot water also treat cervical spondylosis?
Disease description:
I often feel stiffness in my neck, soreness in my shoulders, and sometimes experience dizziness and numbness in my hands. I have been diagnosed with cervical spondylosis. I've heard that there are many methods to relieve cervical spondylosis, and I would like to know whether washing feet with hot water can truly treat this condition.
Doctor's answer (1)
Dr. Chen Jian
Soaking feet in hot water can serve as an adjunctive measure to relieve symptoms of cervical spondylosis, but it cannot directly treat cervical spine problems. Cervical spondylosis primarily results from prolonged periods of neck flexion, which cause continuous strain on the neck muscles and changes in the physiological curvature of the cervical spine.
Soaking feet in hot water can promote blood circulation in the lower limbs and accelerate systemic blood flow, thereby improving local microcirculation and helping to relieve muscle tension and fatigue. When the body is relaxed, particularly with improved blood circulation in the lower limbs, it can indirectly reduce muscle tension in the cervical region and alleviate cervical discomfort caused by muscle stiffness. Additionally, soaking feet in hot water can improve sleep quality, and adequate rest significantly promotes recovery from cervical spondylosis.
However, hot foot soaking should not be considered the sole treatment for cervical spondylosis. Treatment for cervical spondylosis should involve a comprehensive approach based on the severity of the condition, including pharmacological treatment, physical therapy, and traction therapy. For patients with severe symptoms, surgical intervention may be necessary.
Therefore, if you develop cervical spondylosis, it is important to seek medical treatment at a hospital promptly.
