Hot Tub: FSA Eligibility

What are hot tubs?

Hot tubs are useful to treat both major and minor muscle/joint pain through heat therapy or thermotherapy. Heat on muscles may also be called thermotherapy or therapeutic heat. Therapeutic heat might also help relieve pain and tension, especially in knotted areas. The exact mechanisms are not understood, but heat is an excellent way to relieve the symptoms of non-inflammatory body pain (LIVESTRONG).

What exactly does a hot tub do?

A hot tub is a small structure that holds a body of water for leisurely bathing, relaxing, splashing, snoozing, and having a good time. The hot tub heats water until it is hot. Hot water feels good on the body and has thermotherapeutic effects on beleaguered muscles and gnarly joints (Marquis). A hot tub is something a medical professional can write a Letter of Medical Necessity (LMN) for, which will make that hot tub purchase eligible for reimbursement with a consumer-directed healthcare account. Hot tub expenses can overflow based on usage, with electricity being the hottest figure on a hot tub bill. Electricity costs for a hot tub can go up to hundreds of dollars, especially if the hot tub is being used in February in upstate New York. The portion of an electricity bill that is caused by hot tub usage may also be eligible for reimbursement.

Hot tubs hold warm water. That water can easily become a zoo for bacteria, which can cause diseases and infections that will discourage enjoyment of future hot tub activities. Chemicals should be used in the hot tub, and a licensed professional should be hired to ensure the proper chemical balance and equipment function. This will ensure maximum hot tub enjoyment, and maximum soothing of muscles and joint pain.