Cryotherapy (Ice)
				Superficial Heat
		Q:   What is Superficial Heat? A:    Hot packs, warm moist towels, heating pads, and hot water bottles are often used to help raise the temperature of soft tissue directly below the surface of the skin.                                                                                                                                    Q:   How does Superficial Heat work? A:    Heat applied to the surface of the skin enlarges blood vessels. This relaxes the muscles and temporarily relieves painful symptoms.  It is typically combined with Electric Muscle Stimulation to add an extra degree of muscle relaxation and pain relief. Q:   When and why Superficial Heat used? A:     Heat is usually recommended for the relaxation of tissues in spasm, and to give temporary relief of the symptoms associated with chronic pain and muscle tightness. Using heat 10-30 minutes to calm tissues suffering from long-term spasm or irritation. Superficial Heat is an easy way to increase flexibility, range of motion, and promote increased circulation to speed the healing process. Patient Benefits Reduces joint stiffness Relaxes muscle tension Helps increase circulation Widely available and inexpensive

Q:   What is Cryotherapy?
A:    Cryotherapy describes the application of ice or cold packs to reduce the temperature of the skin.
                                                                                                                                   
Q:    How does Cryotherapy work?
A:    Surface cooling constricts blood vessels to reduce inflammation and swelling. It also numbs

painful areas, which reduces nerve transmission of pain and provide temporary relief.
Cryotherapy also helps relax muscle spasms.

Q:    When and why is Cryotherapy used?
A:     Ice is most often used to manage acute injuries or recent flare-ups of chronic conditions.  

Cooling affected tissue is effective in reducing and preventing post-traumatic swelling.  Ice
should be applied several times a day during the initial stages of an injury for 10-15 minutes per
application. Ice is inexpensive, readily available, and an easy way to reduce local swelling of
inflamed tissue. Click here to learn how to make your own ice pack for home use.

Patient Benefits

• Reduces swelling and inflammation
  
• Numbs affected area to reduce pain
  
• Reduces muscle spasm
  
• Inexpensive and can be self-applied