Applying heat and cold on body surfaces is intended to obtain the desired therapeutic effects to alleviate and/or improve different pathologies and ailments. The application of cold for therapeutic purposes is known as cryotherapy, and, on the contrary the application of heat is called thermotherapy.
It is necessary to know very well all the effects derived from the application of heat and cold as well as the consequences that they produce in certain pathology. As health professionals we must be alert and observe the area of application to detect a possible complication early and be able to stop treatment on time.
With our thermotherapy and cryotherapy systems, an in-depth treatment is achieved. At Pacific Physiotherapy, we’ve state-of-the-art devices capable of performing these therapies automatically, forgetting about ice and/or heating water, and without having to move. The system can be programmed according to the pathology to be treated.
Thermotherapy is the therapy used to calm pain and tensed muscles, such as chronic problems, long-term muscle injuries, late-onset muscle pain (soreness) or chronic tendinitis. Cryotherapy is indicated in acute inflammatory processes, such as an ankle sprain, muscle tears or tendinitis.
Heat therapy is used in various conditions to provide relief, promote healing, and improve circulation.
Cryotherapy is commonly used in various conditions to reduce inflammation, numb pain, and promote healing.
Cold therapy works by constricting blood vessels, reducing blood flow to the area, and numbing nerve endings. It’s important to apply cold therapy for appropriate duration and avoid prolonged exposure to prevent tissue damage.
Dry (conducted) heat therapy involves applying heat to the body using sources like heating pads, heat wraps, or heat lamps. It helps relax muscles, improve blood circulation, and relieve pain.
Moist heat therapy involves using moist heat sources like warm towels, hot baths, or moist heating pads. It provides deeper penetration, soothes muscle stiffness, and enhances flexibility.
Both types of heat therapy offer similar benefits but differ in the method of heat application.
Heat therapy works by increasing blood flow to the area, promoting relaxation of muscles, and soothing pain. It helps in reducing stiffness and improving flexibility. Cold therapy, on the other hand, works by constricting blood vessels, reducing inflammation, and numbing the area, which can alleviate pain and minimize swelling. Both therapies have specific effects on the body’s response to pain and inflammation.
Both heat therapy and cryotherapy have a long history of success as well as low risk. They help people of many walks of life, from athletes looking to speed up their recovery time after intense training to those suffering from chronic pain due to nerve damage, musculoskeletal ailments, or autoimmune diseases.
If you have any questions or would like to set up an appointment, please contact us right away. Experts at Pacific Physiotherapy are ready to help you!