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That is one of the questions frequently asked. If used incorrectly however they can worsen the injury or slow down the recovery time. COLD is typically applied within 24 - 48 hrs, of an ACUTE injury. Follow the PRICE PROTOCOL: PROTECTION, REST, ICE, COMPRESSION, ELEVATION, to manage swelling and pain at their peak. Cold therapy (ice, gel-pack, pack of frozen vegetables) should be used periodically throughout the day for 10-15 min. maximum. It is important to use a DAMP towel between skin and coldpack to increase the effectiveness and decrease risk of nerve or skin damage. HOTPACKS can be DRY (such as electric pads, hot-water bottles,or gel-packs) or MOIST such as damp clay packs used in Physio-clinics and Hospitals. |
A hotpack dilates bloodvessels and increase bloodflow delivering the needed nutrients and oxygen to the cells in the area being treated, helping the removal of cell waste and promoting healing. Therapeutic heat is used in the CHRONIC phase of the injury. It plays a role in pain management and reduction of muscle spasms , tension and joint stiffness. NEVER use heat on an acute injury when there is swelling , when there is a throbbing feeling or when the skin feels warm to touch. Heat therapy should be used for 15-20 min. and MOIST heat is BETTER than DRY heat, since it penetrates deeper to reach muscles , ligaments ,and joints. HOW to create MOIST heat? Place a DAMP towel around the hot pack BEFORE applying it on the treatment area. NEVER lie on a hotpack or apply when going to sleep since it increases the likelyhood of a burn!!!! Physiotherapy Association of BC |