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Hot-water immersion: a (not so) new therapy for the primary and secondary prevention of hypertension?
Journal article   Open access   Peer reviewed

Hot-water immersion: a (not so) new therapy for the primary and secondary prevention of hypertension?

Brendon H Roxburgh, James D Cotter, Naoto Fujii, Kunanya Masodsai and Kate N Thomas
Journal of applied physiology, Vol.140(2), pp.439-450
27/12/2025
Handle:
https://hdl.handle.net/10523/49300

Abstract

blood pressure hot-water immersion hypertension passive heat therapy
Hypertension affects over 30% of adults worldwide, significantly increasing the risk of cardiovascular, cerebrovascular, and renal diseases. While regular physical activity is a well- established strategy for lowering blood pressure, additional therapeutic approaches may help individuals who struggle to achieve target blood pressure levels. Hot-water immersion is garnering attention due to its potential cardiovascular benefits. Historically practiced for therapeutic and cultural purposes, hot-water immersion induces physiological responses that share key similarities with physical activity. Accumulating evidence suggests that hot- water immersion may contribute to blood pressure reduction. However, while small-scale studies report promising acute and chronic blood pressure lowering effects, critical gaps remain in the literature. This review summarises current evidence on the anti-hypertensive effects of hot-water immersion, outlining key areas for future research. Hot-water immersion may emerge as an accessible and culturally relevant adjunct therapy for hypertension management.
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roxburgh-et-al-2026-hot-water-immersion-a-(not-so)-new-therapy-for-the-primary-and-secondary-prevention-of-hypertension1.44 MBDownloadView
Published (Version of record) Open Access CC BY V4.0
url
https://doi.org/10.1152/japplphysiol.00846.2025View
Published (Version of record) Open CC BY V4.0

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