Heat Therapy Treatment

Heat or ice? You know they both work, but how do you know which one to use?

Ice therapy, or ice massage therapy, is usually applied during the first 48-72 hours following an injury. After that time heat therapy, or a combination of heat and cold therapy, is usually most beneficial for the healing process.

Because heat increases circulation and helps reduce fluid buildup it is effective in decreasing joint stiffness, reducing inflammation and pain, and relaxing muscle spasms. Heat is particularly beneficial to individuals with symptoms of:

• lower back pain
• s stiff neck and shoulder pain
• pain due to arthritis
• sports injuries
• muscle overuse
• a painful foot problem

How to Apply Heat Therapy

Heat can be applied through various methods, some of which are used on the surface of the body, while others are used to penetrate deep tissues. Typically, 20 minute applications are recommended, which can be repeated after the affected area has had sufficient cooling time.

Water: A hot bath or shower or a whirlpool hydrotherapy treatment, whereby the injured area is submerged into agitated water, may be used.

Steam: Although a sauna does not concentrate on a specific area, the warm steam can be beneficial to the injured muscles and help relax connecting tissues and muscles.

Moist heat pack: Moist heat packs can come in the form of an electric heat pad or a microwave heating pad. Either way, the moisture provides optimal heat transfer to your muscles and tissues.

Dry heat pack: Although not usually recommended as highly as moist heat, a dry heat wrap or dry heat pads will also help facilitate the healing process.

Heating oil: The use of heating oil can provide additional muscle relaxation when used as heat massage therapy.

Paraffin hot wax treatment: Although commonly associated with salon manicures and pedicures, paraffin wax can be used just as easily for therapeutic massage on other parts of the body.

Infrared heat: Heat from a light source which is absorbed by the body will often effectively relieve pain.

Additionally, for deep tissue penetration, electric current and high frequency ultrasound may be used.

Heat Therapy Do's and Don'ts
Do use warm heat, do not use hot heat.
Do keep a protective layer between the heat source and your skin.
Do not fall asleep while using an electric heat source.

Heat application has its limitations and generally should not be used by people who have dermatitis, deep vein thrombosis, diabetes, peripheral vascular disease, an open wound, or severe cognitive impairment. A good rule is to always talk with your health care provider before you begin treatment for an injury.