Heat and Cold Therapy

Therapeutic heat modalities may include hot packs, heating pads, and paraffin bath to provide superficial heating that supplements the deep heat provided by therapeutic ultrasound. Thermal energy (high temperature; heat) increases local blood flow and metabolism and can help reduce muscle spasms and provide pain relief.

Cryotherapy or cold modalities include cold packs and ice massage. These modalities lower local tissue temperature to constrict blood vessels, reduce the release of pain chemicals, and increase the pain threshold of nerves to help reduce pain and muscle spasms.