Hot Foot Bath

Definition: A local immersion bath covering the feet and ankles at temperatures ranging from 103-110 degrees F. for a perod of 10 to 30 minutes.

When the feet are in hot water, the blood which is congesting parts of the body is brought to the dilated vessels in the feet and legs. Congestion of brain, lungs, abdominal, and pelvic organs can be relieved in this manner. This treatment can be effective for foot and leg cramps, sore throat, colds, flu, nausea, insomnia, chet or pelvic congestion and inflamation.

Conditions for which a hot foot bath is not recommended:

Do not use hot foot bath in peripheral vascular disease unless specifically ordered by a physician and then it usually would be done at a temperature of 103 degrees F. Not recommended for frostbite.

Proceedure:

1. When adding hot water be careful not to burn the patient.

2. Explain the procedure to the patient.

3. Have the room warm and free from draft.

4. Treatment may be given with patient lying or sitting, be sure to protect bedding.

5. Have water (103-110 degrees F. ) in a bucket big enough to place both feet in and deep enough so water is 3 or 4 inches above the ankles.

6. Add hot water gradually from time to time to increase the temperature of the water.

7. Continue treatment for 10 to 30 minutes, checking for perspiration.
a. Use a cold compress to the head as needed, and renew often.

8. When finished with treatment pour cold or ice water over feet, remove from tub, and dry thoroughly.

9. Patient should rest, lightly covered, following the treatment for 10-30 minutes.

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