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Family Chiropractic At Salmon Creek, Inc. |
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A Creating Wellness Center |
(360) 696-4405 |
Thermotherapy
Thermotherapy is the aplication of heat to treat symptoms of acute or chronic pain, arthritis, muscle spasm, back pain, tendonitis, and other kinds of joint and muscle pain. Thermotherapy widens blood vessels and increases blood flow to the skin. It relaxes superficial muscles, decreases muscle spasms and reduces stiffness of joints.
There are several methods of delivering thermotherapy to the body. They include:
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Warm compresses and hot packs
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Heating pads
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Heat creams and ointments
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Paraffin dips and whirlpool baths
Moist heat is more effective in treating pain than dry heat because the moisture allows the heat to penetrate more deeply into the muscle. Thermotherapy is frequently used combination with other therapies, such as massage, to relieve pain.
Cryotherapy
Cryotherapy is a term that describes the application of ice compresses to reduce the temperature of tissues directly on or below the skin surface. Cryotherapy works on the surface cooling constricts blood vessels, numbs painful areas, and helps relax muscle spasms. Cold temperatures reduce nerve transmission of painful symptoms and provide temporary relief. Cooling affected tissues is effective in reducing and preventing post-traumatic swelling. Local cooling should be applied several times a day during the initial stages of an injury.
Patients Benefits:
Helps reduce swelling and inflammation,
Numbs affected area to reduce pain,
Reduces muscle spasms
It prepares your body for a great chiropractic adjustment and helps to keep your adjustment longer.
Family Chiropractic offers either therapy as an enhancement before your adjustment.