Thermal Energy (Infrared) Modalities Flashcards
Thermotherapy contraindications and precautions (10)
Hemorrhage Severe edema (renal or cardiac origin) Acute edema DVT Skin, lymphatic, or local cancerous tumor Poor thermal regulation Anesthetic areas Poor circulation Areas of decreased sensation Long-term steroid therapy (capillary fragility)
Paraffin considerations
Lower melting point, increased tolerance to T @ 126 deg F
Substantial risk of burn
Longer-lasting pain relief
Mineral oil remains on skin post-tx
Fluidotherapy considerations
Simultaneous heat and sensory stimulation
Higher tx T (110-125 deg F)
Allows for P- and AROM
15-20 min tx
Cryotherapy considerations
Large SA being cooled –> triggers HT - shivering induced to raise core temp –> aa. vasoconstriction in other body parts causing increase in BP
Lower thermal conductivity of subcutaneous adipose –> longer time to cool and provides insulation keeping tissue cooler longer
Hunting response after 20-30 min tx to prevent local tissue damage (if skin no significant VD, and any that occurs is negligible
Massage –> ice bag –> gel pack
Cryotherapy stages of sensation
Cold
Stinging and burning
Ache
Numbness (to fine touch)
Cryotherapy indications (9)
Acute injury Acute inflammation Edema control (w/ compression and elevation) Pain Spasticity Muscle spasm Myofascial pain, trigger points Sprains and strains Tendinitis, bursitis, tenosynovitis
Cryotherapy contraindications (5)
Decreased areas of sensation Areas of decreased circulation (PVD) Reynaud's phenomenon Severe cardiovascular or respiratory problems Hx of frostbite to tx area
Cryotherapy precautions (3)
HTN
RA
Reflex sympathetic dystrophy (RSD)/chronic regional pain syndrome (CRPS)
Thermotherapy indications (8)
Subacute or chronic inflammatory conditions Pain reduction Subacute or chronic muscle spasm Subacute muscle strain or ligament sprain Muscle guarding Decreased ROM Hematoma Reduction of joint contractures
