Cold Local Bath

HYD

from Hydrothermic Remedies...

Water Temp: 16°C lower limit

Effects:

  • Vasoconstriction for:-
    • Bleeding
    • Traumatic Injury and Swelling
  • Relieves Pain

Definition

The immersion of an extremity in cold water.

Indications

  1. Swelling and Congestion as during the early stages of Sprain or Strain
  2. Acute Inflammation as in acute Rheumatoid Arthritis

Contraindications

  1. Cold sensitivity - fear of cold
  2. Poor circulation
  3. Chilliness

Equipment

  1. As for Alternate Bath

Procedure

Preparation for Treatment

  • The body must be comfortably warm before starting the treatment. A general heating treatment may be needed.

Treatment

  • The temperature of the water should not be so cold as to cause pain within 30 seconds, usually around 16°C
  • The duration of the treatment may be about 30 minutes, repeated as needed to relieve pain
  • Give special attention to the comfort of the patient's position.