How about hot parrafin baths?

I think I remember our cousin with rheumatoid arthritis using hot wax baths. Something like this (got off a google --Use Wax Heat and Cold and Wax Therapy):

Wax

Few things warm and soothe aching hands as thoroughly as a dip in hot wax. Paraffin treatments are a popular offering from physiotherapists, but you can also treat yourself at home. You don't really need a special machine to try this treatment. Here are directions that you can follow:

Materials: 3 packages paraffin wax, available in grocery stores. Tall pot, pint of mineral oil, plastic bags big enough to fit over your hand, towel (warmed, preferably).

Melt enough paraffin in the pot to fill it about halfway.

Add mineral oil until the pot is three-quarters full. Stir well.

Remove pot from heat and let cool until a light skin forms over the paraffin. Test the temperature.

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