Thermotherapy Flashcards
Identify Superficial Heat sources (4)
Infrared lamps
Moist heat packs
Paraffin baths
Warm whirlpool/immersion
Define Specific Heat Capacity
The amount of energy needed to raise the temperature of a unit mass by 1 degree F
Identify Deep Heat modalities (3)
Microwave diathermy
Short wave diathermy
Ultrasound
Superficial Heat is effective up to how deep in the tissue?
2 cm depth of penetration
Effects of heat are? (13)
Vasodilation Increased cell metabolism Increased delivery of leukocytes Increased capillary permeability Increased venous and lymphatic drainage Edema formation Removal of metabolic waste Increased elasticity of ligaments, capsules, and muscles Analgesia and sedative effects on nerves Decreased muscle tone Decreased muscle spasm Perspiration Increased nerve conduction velocity
Systemic Effects mostly occur with full body exposure to heat (whirlpool > MHP). The systemic effects are? (4)
Increased body temp
Increased pulse rate
Increased respiratory rate
Decreased blood pressure
Thermotherapy effect on the Injury Response Process (2)
Increase cell metabolism
Increase rate of inflammation
Thermotherapy effects on Inflammation
Increased blood flow
Removal of cellular debris
Increased delivery of O2 and nutrients
Increased delivery of leukocytes and encourage phagocytosis
Thermotherapy Indication (5)
Subacute/Chronic Inflammation Encourage tissue healing Reduce edema/ecchymosis Improve ROM Promote drainage from infected area
2-5 cm penetration of heat is considered?
Deep heat
Contraindications for Heat are (5)
Acute injuries Impaired Circulation Poor thermal regulation Anesthetic areas Neoplasms - abnormal tissue (tumor) that grows at the expense of healthy tissue
Clinical Application for Whirlpool (4)
90-110 degrees F (106-108) Caution: Hyperthermia Irritation from agitation of the water Gravity dependent position Safety: GFI, Cleanliness
Clinical Application for Paraffin Bath
118-126 degrees F
Provides 6x the heat of water
Small irregular surfaces: fingers, hands, etc
