I like using moist heat
packs. It’s not just warm, but
moist. When it’s moist, the heat penetrates more quickly and deeper. Primary
effects of heat are:
- Increased supply of oxygen and nutrients and elimination of waste (Vasodilation)
- Relieves pain (Analgesic)
- Relaxes muscle fibers by lengthening
- Increased circulation
- Increased metabolism, respiration, and nerve and muscle response
- Moving blood toward the area treated (Derivation)
- Brings white blood cells to the area treated (Leukocytosis)
It also helps you calm
down (relax the nervous system), so I always recommend it to my clients even
at home whenever a heat application is appropriate.
Here is the important information about when to use heat or ice as using it incorrectly aggravates the
condition.
USE ICE for INJURIES
(ACUTE PAIN/INFLAMMATION) when superficial
tissue is sensitive to touch, the
skin is hot and red, or there is swelling. Also muscles injuries such as muscle strains, pulled muscles, and torn muscles.
- Wrap an ice pack with a towel and apply for no more than 20 minutes every hour. Icing too long can cause more pain.
USE HEAT for CHRONIC MUSCLE
PAIN, SPASMS and STRESS RELIEF
- Warm a heat pack according to the instruction (do not overheat to avoid injury). Wrap it with a towel, or apply it over the clothes. Apply for 10-20 minutes.
I use moist heat packs called hydrocollator in massage sessions,
but you can get a microwavable heat pack or a rubber hot water bottle. Although it’s not a moist heat pack,
the primary effects are the same.
You can experiment with a heat pack wrapped with a warm wet towel to
make a moist heat pack.
I will talk more about other hot and cold applications next
time.