Effect of Local Heat Stress Via Leg Bath on Artery Function

Flow-mediated dilation

Arteries are flexible in their structure and function and change in response to a variety of
 factors. Endothelial cells, are the skin type cells that form a layer inside arteries, and
 they are very important for arterial health. When they work properly, they produce substances
 that make the artery enlarge and support a healthy environment; but when they do not work
 properly, they produce substances that make the artery constrict and lead to a harmful
 environment. We can measure the function of these cells using an ultrasound machine and a
 quick test. The application of heat has been shown to change the structure and function of
 arteries, but we need to understand how these changes happen before we can effectively use
 heat as a therapy. Limb heating protocols (e.g., leg bath), in contrast with whole-body
 heating modes (e.g., sauna), are appealing as therapies because they generally cost less and
 are easier to use; but evidence is needed to demonstrate that they work before widespread use
 can be considered. Imagine soaking your legs in a bathtub filled with warm water becoming
 part of the options you have for staying healthy. Clearly, there is a lot of potential for
 heat to be used as a therapy, particularly for people who are unable to, or have difficulty
 participating in other health interventions that are known to improve arterial, but we need
 to do this type of research before we are able to recommend warm foot baths for therapeutic
 purposes.