Heat theraphy also known as thermotheraphy is nothing but application of heat for various ailments. The therapeutic effects of heat include increasing the extensibility of collagen tissues; decreasing joint stiffness; reducing pain; relieving muscle spasms; reducing inflammation etc. The increased blood flow to the affected area provides proteins, nutrients, and oxygen for better healing.
HOW TO APPLY HEAT THERAPHY?
HOW TO APPLY HEAT THERAPHY?There are 2 types of heat- dry and moist. Dry heat can be given by using electric heating pads and saunas whereas moist heat can be moist towels and sauna baths.
First, find a type of hot pack you need. Moist heat is suitable for general pain whereas dry heat is suitable for deep muscular pain. Make sure that the heating pack fits the area of concern. The temperature of heat should be around 40°C, or just comfortable for your skin to bear. It’s a good idea to use a couple layers of towel to keep the temperature in a safe range, especially with electric heat packs that can keep increasing in temperature. Keep the hot pack for 15-20 minutes. Stop and repeat every 2 hours.
Caution: Heat will make some conditions much worse. Never apply heat to an infection or fresh injury!
BENEFITS
INCREASES BLOOD CIRCULATION
Blood drawn into the target tissues delivers needed oxygen and nutrients and removes cell wastes. Applying heat therapy does just that! Applying heat to your tissues increases the blood circulation. The warmth decreases muscle spasm, relaxes tense muscles, relieves pain, and can increase range of motion.
FLEXIBILITY
Flexibility gives you an overall feeling of comfort. Heat application facilitates stretching the soft tissues around the spine, including muscles, connective tissue, and adhesions. Consequently, with heat therapy, there will be a decrease in stiffness as well as injury.
INEXPENSIVE AND EASY TO DO
Compared to most of the therapies, heat therapy is quite inexpensive. Heat therapy is also easy to do; it can be done at home while relaxing on a sofa while watching tv, and portable heat wraps also make it an option while at work or in the car as it does not show up and remains hidden in the clothes.
FASTER PAIN RELIEF
Moist heat pads relax and penetrate the muscle faster due to the wet heat. Blood quickly rushes in and starts the healing process as the muscle heats up. If you use moist heat therapy, you may start feeling more relaxed faster each time you do the therapy and get better faster overall.
DETOX
Application of heat promotes your capacity to get rid of toxins the natural way. As blood flow is increased, toxins are pulled out of injured tissues more effectively. You may also detox while working out or doing yoga by wearing a warm wrap around the tummy. This increases the detoxifying process.