Hot and Cold Advice

1. ICE PACK
(Cold therapy produces vasoconstriction)
This means that the diameter of the blood vessels in the area become smaller,
allowing less blood to flow to the target tissues.
This slows circulation, which in turn reduces inflammation, reduces swelling, eases
muscle spasm and decreases pain (by slowing the nerve impulses to the injured
area).
Superficial cold is available in many forms, including a variety of commercial cold
packs, ice cubes, iced towels/compresses, a bag of frozen peas and forms of
hydrotherapy.
Instructions:
Cold or ice should never be applied directly to the skin. A barrier, such as a damp
tea towel, should be placed between the cold agent and the skin's surface to prevent
skin and nerve damage. Punctured commercial cold packs should be immediately
discarded, as the chemical agent/gel will burn skin.
Apply for 10 mins, then take it off for 30 mins for the skin to recover. Repeat typically
for 3-5 times per day.
HEAT PACK
Heat therapy induces vasodilatation
For chronic pain (pain that has been present for a few days), treat with a heat pack.
This means that the diameter of the blood vessels in the area become bigger,
allowing more blood to flow to the target tissues.
Increased blood flow delivers needed oxygen and nutrients and removes cell wastes.
The warmth decreases muscle spasm, relaxes tense muscles, relieves pain and can
increase range of motion.
Superficial heat is available in many forms, including hot and moist compresses,
heating pads, hydrotherapy and commercial chemical/gel packs.
Instructions:
Hot packs in any form should always be wrapped in a moist tea towel to prevent
burns. Punctured commercial hot packs should be immediately discarded, as the
chemical
agent/gel will burn skin.
Apply for 20 mins, then take it off for 30 mins. Repeat typically for 3-5 times per day.
Heat & Ice Pack Instructions