Hot And Cold Therapy

Hot and Cold Encyclopedia

Heat and cold are the two of the most common physical phenomena in the world. Heat is the excessive release of energy of atoms and cold is a condition where atoms loose most of their energy. Enough with the science, in the medical world heat and cold are the most common types of noninvasive and non-addictive pain-relief therapies for muscle and joint pain today. Speaking in layman’s terms, a new injury may cause inflammation and possibly swelling. Ice decreases the blood flow to the injury, thereby decreasing the amount of inflammation and swelling. The pain that recurs after this can be easily treated with heat, which brings the blood to the area thus promoting healing.

What does heat and cold do?

Heat works in a number of ways. Firstly, it opens up your blood vessels which in turn increase the blood flow and supply of oxygen and nutrients. This reduces the pain in joints and relaxes sore muscles, ligaments, and tendons. The heat also decreases muscle spasms and increases a person’s range of motion. When one applies superficial heat to the body, it improves the flexibility of tendons and ligaments, reduces muscle spasms, and alleviates pain. Cold on the other hand, restricts blood flow and therefore very helpful in cases of inflammation and swelling. Cold also helps in reducing muscle spasm. Cold therapy is usually used in places where there is a swelling or a bruise.

What are the methods of application?

Dry heat is avoided during this therapy as it may dry the skin and so moist heat is feasible one. It penetrates the skin better. The major mediums of heat therapy are microwavable heat pads, hot water bottles, gel packs, and hot water baths. One should take care that warmth is the aim of this therapy and so the medium should not be too hot to cause an injury or burn. The main method of using the cold therapy is a cold or ice gel pack, ice baths, and cold water immersions.

What are my options?

There are four major options in this category. Click on the following links to know more.

• Hot and Cold Packs
• Topical Analgesics
• Cold Wraps
• Hot Wraps

 

Disclaimer: All content found on our website, including images, videos, infographics and text were created solely for informational purposes. Our content should never be used for the purpose of diagnosis or treatment of any medical conditions. Content shared on our websites is not meant to be used as a substitute for advice from a certified medical professional. Reliance on the information provided on our website as a basis for patient treatment is solely at your own risk. We urge all our customers to always consult a physician or a certified medical professional before trying or using a new medical product.