Heat & Cold Applications
Cold application is the application of a cold agent cooler than skin either in a moist or dry form, on the surface of the skin – To reduce pain and body temperature – To anaesthetize an area – To control hemorrhage – To control the growth of bacteria – To prevent gangrene – To prevent edema – To reduce inflammation. SUPERFICIAL HEAT AND COLD Primarily increase or decrease temperature of skin, superficial subcutaneous tissues. THERAPEUTIC APPLICATION Heating Agents Transfer heat to patient’s body, between various tissue / fluids Cooling Agents ◦ Transfer heat away from patient’s body. HOT APPLICATION Hot application is the application of a hot agent, warmer than the skin, either in a moist or dry form on the surface of the body; To relieve pain and congestion, provide warmth, promote suppuration, promote healing, decrease muscle tone and To soften the exudates.