There are a lot of myths about using hot and cold therapy for injuries and everyday aches and pains. It’s important to know what to expect from these modalities and how they can help when you schedule an appointment for physical therapy in Northfield.
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Understanding Cold/Hot Press Therapy
You should not confuse hot and cold press treatments with other trending therapies, such as cryotherapy or cold water immersion. There is a big difference between the former, which have proven themselves effective over time and through research, and the latter.
Most heat and cold therapies used in PT are applied through compresses or ice packs. You may also have a heating pad, or be advised to use hot or cold baths to bring general relief. Keep in mind that there are no miracle cures that will relieve pain overnight. These are used along with other therapies to reduce pain and inflammation while improving strength and range of motion.
Harnessing the Healing Power: Exploring Temperature Treatments
Heat and cold therapies have a place in many treatment protocols. You can find a physical therapist to help guide you through how to use them by doing a quick search for physical therapy near me. It’s a good idea to get a basic idea of how they work to help guide your conversations with a new therapist.
Heat Therapy
Two common types of hot compresses are heating pads and warm, wet towels. They both supply targeted heat to an affected area. Heating pads can get very warm, so be careful to avoid burns, especially if you have diminished sensation in your skin.
Heat therapy is an excellent choice for chronic pain that includes muscle stiffness or spasms. It helps to promote proper circulation and brings blood to the affected area, which can promote healing. It can also be very relaxing, which can further reduce discomfort.
You should not use heat presses on new injuries. Instead, wait at least 48 hours after incurring an injury to apply heat for the best results.
Cold Therapy
You have probably experienced cold therapy as putting an ice pack on an injury at some point in your life. It works great for a new injury to reduce swelling and pain at the site and is preferable to heat in the first couple of days after getting hurt. However, it is not just for fresh injuries.
You can use cold presses for chronic conditions that cause swelling, especially around joints and tendons. It also helps reduce nerve activity in the treated area for a short time, which can bring pain relief. You can achieve these results with ice packs, cold compresses, gel packs, and coolant sprays.
How Often Should You Apply Temperature Presses?
Most heat and cold presses are applied for between 10 and 20 minutes. This is often repeated every four to six hours. however, you should work with your therapist to find a schedule that fits your needs.
Heat and cold have been used to treat pain and injuries for many years. Whether you are searching for physical therapy jobs NJ or want to find an excellent PT center near your home, it is important to fully understand how hot and cold therapy can (and can’t) help you heal.